Your child’s growth and development is a gradual process that involves many aspects. Note that these processes are different for every child. Even potty or toilet training is not the same for every child. Your child doesn’t have to start their toilet training at a certain age. Most kids start to show signs of wanting to use the toilet between the ages of eighteen (18) months to three (3) years. Whether they are already attending childcare in North Ryde or still at home, your child will start toilet training at their right time.
Trying to force them early disorients them and might cause anxiety, which could haunt their adulthood. The best way to ease them into this important part of their learning is by looking out for signs.
Regardless of their age, your help with these symptoms makes it easier for them. Some of the signs to look out for include:
Signs Your Child Is Ready To Toilet Train
Hiding in a different room to pee or poop (in their diaper)
Staying dry longer than usual
Ability to sit on a potty
Showing interest and copying others in the house
Pulling at a wet diaper
Saying they are about to go
Waking up dry
Ability to pull their pants up and down
We cannot insist enough on the fact that each child is special in their own way. Do not fuss if they delay displaying these signs. When they do, there are things you can do to encourage them for quicker learning.
These tips shared by seasoned parents and experienced caregivers from centres that provide childcare in Lindfield, Chatswood, North Ryde and Macquarie park will help you know how to go about this.
Toilet Training Dos
Talk To Them Early
The use of a potty or toilet bowl for your child is foreign to them as they do not fully understand the concept. An abrupt introduction might throw your child off, further delaying their preparedness. To help, gradually talk your child into trying it. Let them sit on one even when they do not have the urge. It helps them get accustomed.
Follow Their Pace
It is understandable that you are eager to see your child use the potty well. This could be because you intend to have them start childcare in Chatswood or travel with them. However, until they show signs, your efforts to have them use one will be futile. Wait until you are sure they want to sit on the potty.
Try Rewards
If your child is ready to start their toilet training, throwing in a few rewards or commentaries helps. Cheering them up for using their potty well encourages them to do it better the next time. They will be eager to please you if they know you are proud of their ‘little job’.
Engage Their Childcare Provider
Since there is no age limit for enrolling your child in childcare, they might have to toilet train while already in one. This is okay since many providers of childcare in Macquarie Park have caregivers who are trained in this field. When you notice the signs, inform them to assist your child during the day and let your child know they can inform them as well if they need to use the toilet.
Toilet Training Don’ts
Do Not Rush
We understand how exciting it can be to see your child finally learn to control their bowels. However, this shouldn’t drive you to force them to. Many parents make this error by forgetting that toilet use is a whole new concept and kids need to learn it gradually. Forcing your child to use the potty right after the first signs causes negative results like backtracking.
Do Not Punish
Being too eager to quit the diapers might drive you to want your child to use the toilet. For late growers, frustrated parents feel the urge to punish their kids when they have a little accident or mess their clothes. Instead of punishing or shouting at your child, remind them calmly to inform you the next time they want to go.
There Is No Deadline
Your child is different from all others, including their siblings. Therefore, their toilet training doesn’t have to be similar to their older brothers and sisters. If they take longer, be patient and help them instead of showing your disappointment.
In summary, toilet training is a unique process for each child. Give yours time and see what helps them versus what scares them about this new experience. If you need help, you can talk to their pediatrician. Alternatively, you can speak to the caregivers at centres that provide childcare in Chatswood and the rest of the suburbs in Sydney to learn about their experiences.