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It can sometimes become a tough task for a toddler to make the transition to using the potty on his own. Some children experience a little fear, some a little anger, and frustration, and others are simply disinterested in the process. However, there are a number of simple techniques at the disposal of parents to make the potty-training process go a little smoother.
Start as Early as Possible
The process of potty training a child should begin as soon as the child is both physically able and attentive enough to do so. This age will not be the same for all children and you must pay close attention to your child in order to know when the time is right.
Go Diaper Free explains that there are many advantages to beginning the potty training process as soon as possible. Potty trained children experience fewer rashes and other diaper related infections. Additional benefits of potty training your child early will be the money saved from not having to purchase diapers and the added flexibility in your search for preschools or daycare.
Create a Night Time Routine
Parents who have potty trained a child already know that the nighttime hours bring with them a particular set of complications. However, the effects of these complications can be mitigated by devising a routine that will get your child through the night.
It is a good idea to cut out fluids for the child an hour before bed. You can also encourage the child to use the bathroom half an hour before preparing for bed. The child should use the bathroom again immediately before retiring for the night. Be sure to have nightlights in the bedroom and bathroom so the child will not be afraid to use the restroom at night.
Potty Genius explains that your child will most likely have some accidents at night, which you can prepare for by placing a towel above the sheets for easier clean-up.
Exercise Patience
Many new parents will be surprised to learn that potty training is seldom a quick and easy process. In fact, the average time to potty train a child is estimated to be a year. Do your best not to show your frustration when setbacks occur. Every child is different and will master the process at their own pace.
Develop a Reward System
Everyone appreciates positive reinforcement. Parenting Passage explains that a system of rewards may be just the thing needed to keep your child motivated while being potty trained. Some possible rewards can be a small deposit in a piggy bank, a piece of candy, or stickers for each successful use of the potty.
The type of reward is not as important as making sure your child feels a sense of being praised and rewarded for their accomplishment.
Potty training can be one of the most trying times in a child’s young life. The good news is there a number of simple tips to make the process of potty training your child a little simpler. One of the best things you can have while potty training is baby wipes. You’d be surprised how versatile baby wipes can be, so remember having too much is always better than not enough!
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