How to Know When to Ditch the Diapers
The only thing that can be more undesirable than changing dirty diapers is going head-to-head with a toddler for potty training. There will come a time when you can cut that particular cord forever and say goodbye to diapers. Watch your child for signs that he is ready to move onto the big kid underpants for good. If you know what to look for, it can help you plan your next move so you can take one more step closer to those glorious diaper-free days.
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Instructions
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Observe your child for signs that she is ready to start potty training. She may find dirty diapers uncomfortable and request immediate changes. Your child will begin to stay drier for longer stretches of time, such as up to an hour after meals or through nap time, and you may find yourself able to predict the time your child will wet or dirty her diaper with more accuracy. She'll may demonstrate an interest in trying a toilet or wearing underpants.
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Set up a potty chair, or a stool by the toilet, for your child for easy access. Suggest potty trips whenever you predict your child will be ready to go, such as 30 to 60 minutes after meals or a cup of juice, or after naps if he's remained dry. Allow your child to sit on the potty whenever he feels he wants to try it.
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Praise your child whenever she is successful in using the potty, and praise her when she keeps her diaper dry. This will encourage her on both counts. Give small rewards, like stickers or outings, to motivate your child to keep succeeding.
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Offer your child underwear for the periods when he remains dry most often. Purchase underwear with colorful characters or images that your child likes, and tell him that he can wear them longer if he keeps them clean and dry. Gradually reduce the amount of time he spends in diapers and increase the amount of time in underwear.
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Eliminate diapers when your child is managing to stay dry throughout the day and night. Accidents may occasionally happen, but if they are infrequent then diapers are no longer necessary. Keep on track with reminders and encouragement, and your family will be diaper free.
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Tips & Warnings
Always give your child the option, rather than demand she use the potty. Your child might take such a challenge as a chance to stand up for her own independence. If you turn it into a power struggle, you may defeat yourself.
Never punish, embarrass or make a fuss over an accident. Let it go if your child sits on the potty but nothing happens. Negative reinforcement won't give him incentive to keep trying because he'll associate the whole situation of sitting on the potty with stress and bad feelings.
Don't rush your child. Keep on top of the reminders and encouragement, and he will follow through on his own timetable. Starting him early before he is ready is no guarantee he will potty train early. It just will make the training period take longer.
References
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