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There's a common misconception that children need to hit certain developmental milestones before starting potty training. But introducing the potty early in a low-pressure way helps make the process much smoother later on, when your child is ready to take the nappy off full time.Rather than waiting for some undefined "readiness," consider a gentle introduction well before the big nappy removal. Children learn best through everyday interactions, not just from what we tell them. Small practices can slowly build familiarity and confidence.
By introducing the potty naturally and without pressure, you can help your child build confidence. This approach will make them feel excited and self-assured when it's time to transition to nappy-free days, embracing the next stage of development.
How can you begin preparing for potty training with a gentle approach?
At nappy changing times
Nappy changing times is a perfect time to naturally start putting the potty in to the routine, its also a very consistent way to introduce potty training.
- Start changing nappies standing up which means the child is more involved and engaged in the process
- Have little no expectation sits on the potty- praise just sitting
- Talk about potty vocabulary- where wee and poo goes, what the potty is and start hygiene routines.
Make it fun
Children acquire knowledge through play and enjoyable, meaningful interactions. Potty training is no different! Making it fun and engaging can actually encourage young children to participate.
- Get your child to decorate a potty with stickers, this make it their own and motivates them to use it.
- Make a potty basket with some interesting things that are next to the potty.
- Role play with teddy going on the potty and commentate what is happening.
- Read fun stories about potty training
- Introduce songs or rhymes to children to boost their potty vocabulary.
Practice
It is crucial to introduce the idea of not expecting to actually have a successful wee or poo in the potty, as this helps in building confidence and independence without putting any pressure on. The practice should be carried out without wearing a nappy so that children can begin to sense and comprehend their bodily functions without the presence of a highly absorbent nappy.
Encourage brief periods of bare-bottom time! This can be done after changing a nappy after a bath, or before getting dressed to help them become accustomed to being without a nappy.
It is important to observe the physical signs that your child displays before they need to go for a wee/poo, as these cues will be valuable when transitioning to no longer using a nappy.
No Pressure
Initial potty introductions should be free from any pressure, anticipation, or embarrassment. Our goal is to boost confidence and foster independence in acquiring a new skill.
If your child does wee on the floor- which they will! Simply and calmly say “Remember wee goes in the potty” This starts teaching them where the wee goes and gives a clear but kind message as the start to understand the next step.
By starting with these initial practices, you will be laying the groundwork, simplifying the potty training process, and fostering valuable confidence. Effective teaching doesn't happen instantly but requires continuous gentle preparation.
Need help with potty training? Little Ones At Home offers personalised guidance using a child-focused approach to help teach this crucial skill.
Contact us today for more information at www.littleonesathome.com
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