Toilet Training (part 3)
You would be wise to read my 2 previous postings about toilet training as a review before attempting this actual routine.
Remember you can’t go far wrong:
- if you don’t start too early
- if you don’t force the child
- if you don’t panic
Step # 1
Does he know he’s wet? Modern disposable diapers are too comfortable. I recommend that you use training pants as wet pants are cold, itchy and uncomfortable. You want your child to be aware of that wet, icky feeling.
Step # 2
Once he has developed an awareness of being uncomfortable when wet, have him sit regularly on the potty:
- before and after meals
- before and after playtime
Give him some books to look at and sit on the floor beside him and talk about the books ( make it a pleasant time for you and the child)
Some children are enthused and motivated to use the potty and some are not. It is pointless to fight with the child if he is fighting with you.
Step # 3
If the child relieves himself in the potty, reinforce him (some suggestions for reinforcement could include: praise, phoning daddy at work, phoning grandma, a jelly bean, a small trinket, etc.
Don’t force the situation. If he does not “go” in the potty, do not make him stay too long but put him on again in a short while. In the event of an accident, do not scold or punish the child, just continue the routine in a loving and supportive way
If it is obviously not going to work for him, put the potty away for a few weeks and try again later.
If he continue to have trouble, it would be wise to consult with his pediatrician to ensure there is no medical problem.
He WILL eventually master this skill !
Trying to rush toilet training is like trying to hurry hair growth. It just doesn’t work.
What parents need most are ideas because with ideas we get options.
Rick Harper has been providing ideas for over 40 years.