Pediatric Sleep Coaching Tips For Potty Training

Check For Readiness

While there is no ideal age for potty training, the average window is 18 months to four years. It is much easier to train your toddler before they fully gain their sense of self and independence, exhibited when they embrace their favorite word – no. Once they start this, potty training becomes more of a battle of wills than if you can achieve it before this point.

It Should Be The Right Time For Everyone

While you want your toddler to be ready before they start declining everything, you must train when it’s a good time for you and your whole family. Ditching diapers during another significant change will not end well.

Make Sure They Are Healthy

Your child shouldn’t have any medical issues you are working through or illnesses, even minor ones like colds when you commence training. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician.

Start with Daytime Training

The sensation of needing to use the toilet is much easier to teach during the day when your little one is awake. Once they recognize this and master the skill, they may start involuntarily holding it overnight or during naps.

Limit Evening Drinks and Snacks

Typically, children start to regulate their bowel movements when they start to master toileting, so nap or bedtime number twos usually clear up on their own. If they don’t, you will want to limit snacks beginning one to two hours before bed.

Have Easily Accessible Supplies for Accidents

Accidents are a sign of learning, and they are inevitable. When you do ditch the overnight diaper, have supplies on hand. A hospital-grade Chux pad, puppy pad, or a thick synthetic blanket nearby works well to cover the spot until morning. Always have a spare set of easy-on pajamas to slip on your child.

Avoid The Bedtime Stall Tactics

Some toddlers get wise and use potty training to stall bedtime. Avoid this by incorporating toilet trips into your nighttime routine.  In the end, you know your child and will find the best method and tricks that work well for them. Be consistent, and the results will follow.

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