How to Potty Train a Child

Potty training a child takes patience and usually doesn't happen overnight. Working with your child will build her confidence and ensure success. Here are some tips to potty train your child.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• potty chair

How to Potty Train a Child.

1. Place your child's potty chair in a place that's easily accessable. If you have a large home, consider purchasing more than one chair. A potty chair for every floor is a good rule of thumb.

2. Watch for signs that your child needs to use the potty. These may include jumping around or holding themselves. Generally a child will need to urinate about an hour after a large drink and have a bowl movement once a day. Bowel movements are normally after meals, so also be aware of when your child eats or drinks.

3. Pay attention. When you believe you are getting the signal, place your child on the potty chair. Try to get your child to stay on the chair as long as you can. Stay with them and perhaps read to them or give them a toy to hold while they are on the chair.

4. Reward your child when he succeeds. This can be with praise or even a treat from the kitchen. Any kind of motivation will help your child desire to use his potty chair.

5. Never punish your child for failing to use the potty. Any negative feelings toward the potty training experience will likely hinder the process, which no parent wants.

Tips & Warnings

• Potty training can take a few months. Patience is key.
• It is possible that a child is simply not ready to be potty trained. If the experience is causing distress for your or your child, talk to your child's doctor. They may suggest trying again at a later time.

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