Kids grow up fast. While some transitions are
bittersweet, most parents are happy to say goodbye to diapers when the time is
right. However, potty-training can be frustrating for both parents and kids
without an understanding of the process. Knowing your child’s unique needs is
important, say experts.
Read more: Advice and advantages of potty-training before preschool
According to a recent online survey of 1,000 parents of toddlers conducted by Edelman Berland, commissioned by Kimberly-Clark, the top three most important factors in deciding what potty-training method to use are:
1. that it helps kids become independent
2. teaches potty-training skills
3. allows kids to set their own pace
“Your child’s
readiness depends on both physical and psychological factors,” says Dr. Heather
Wittenberg, Pull-Ups brand potty training
partner and child psychologist who specializes in the development of babies and
young children. “Remember, every child is an individual. So don’t get stressed
about your training pace.”
To help families with the process, Wittenberg is offering
some tried-and-true potty-training tips:
Read more: Experts weigh in on potty-training your preschooler
Getting Started
Potty-training usually starts around age two, but there
is no correct age to begin.
Watch out for signs of readiness. If your child is dry
after naps, uncomfortable in soiled diapers and is showing increased interest
in the bathroom, he or she may be ready to potty-train. Additionally, your
child may start asking to wear “big kid” underwear.
Independence
“You can foster independence right from the start with
the help of tools that enable learning, such as training pants and potty seats,”
says Wittenberg. “Giving kids control inside and outside of the bathroom is key
to increasing cooperation over the long run and helping them overcome the
psychological hurdles of potty-training.”
In fact, 7 out of 10 parents think training pants give
parents and toddlers more potty-training independence, according to the same
Edelman Berland study.
Most disposable training pants feature stretchy sides
that teach toddlers how to take their training pants off and put them back on
by themselves. The easy-open sides make it a breeze for parents and child to
check for the need for potty breaks.
The Right Attitude
A healthy attitude will make all the difference. Ignore
setbacks and negative behavior and try to maintain a neutral reaction instead.
Your disapproval will only create more negativity. By motivating your toddler
and acknowledging every step, the whole family can enjoy the process and it won’t
feel like a chore.
Use Resources
There is a wealth of potty-training information available
for both parents and toddlers. Additionally, check out online resources that
are tailored to your child’s needs. For example, Pull-Ups website features a suite of learning tools, tips for handling setbacks and interactive games
to help with the process. Visit the site and see what tools you can find.
Potty-training is an exciting milestone in a child’s
life. Understand the process so you can make the learning experience more
enjoyable and set your child up for success from the beginning.
Article provided by
StatePoint