When to start potty training?

Question

When do you think the best time to start potty training is? My son will be 18 months in January and has started telling us when he has done a number 2 in his nappy. Our families keep saying that it’s time to get a potty but I wondered if it’s to early as he’s not telling us when he needs the toilet just when he’s done it? Thanks!

Answer

I don't think it's a bad idea to get a potty and let him get comfortable with it, but I wouldn't force anything. My daughter will be 18mo next month also and we've had a potty for a while. She enjoys sitting on it and putting her baby on it and has actually initiated using it a couple times but if I ask if she wants to use it it's a no way! And I let it go. We just got a potty book but she still doesn't seem quite ready. But I known me and my mom both learned early, like around 18-20mo, all kids are different. I think you'll know when it's time.

Answer

It depends on the child, but for MOST, it’s too early. Trying to potty train too early only causes frustration on both ends and ill feelings towards the potty on their side. I introduced when my last daughter was around 22 months and let her kind of lead the way with just my background encouragement. By age 2, I started to make it more of a consistent activity. By around 26 months she was trained. I never had battles or fights with her over it and it was always a positive experience. My oldest two kids I made all the opposite mistakes. I’m due again with baby #6 in April and won’t start introducing till around May or June just like my last. She’s already showing interest I think because of her older “little” sister, but I know any progress made will only regress when the baby gets here 🤷‍♀️

Answer

I have 3 kids. It's way too early in my opinion. It's one thing to know when they've already gone, but to recognize their body feelings before hand with enough time to tell you they need to go before having an accident is very different. You can get a little baby potty and see if he'll practice on his own,  but I would not initiate it on your part this young or it can turn into a power struggle or he may get upset/frustrated if he has frequent accidents (which is likely at his age)

When to start potty training?

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