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How to Successfully Potty-Train a Toddler

Member
By Traqqer
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)
Successfully Potty-Train a Toddler
Successfully Potty-Train a Toddler

Think it's about time your toddler started using good old Mr. toilet? Here's some tips on how to train your little man/woman...

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Toddler
  • Toilet
  • Time
  • Determination
  1. Step 1

    Show examples of you or your spouse using the toilet for both number 1 and 2. Try to exaggerate using facial emotions to show how pleasant it is to use it.

  2. Step 2

    Get a potty training book with vivid colors and drawings that show a toddler using a toilet. The book should not have much words as it will detract from the pictures. It's like that old saying, a picture is worth a thousand words.

  3. Step 3

    Remove diapers and have your toddler wear cotton underwear. After he/she has done once in the underwear, the unpleasant feeling of wet underwear will give him/her added incentive to go in the toilet the next time. Sometimes, the toddler may continue to do #2 in the underwear. In that case, take off the underwear and it should help to let the toddler know that there is nothing to catch the poop, and hence, he/she should go in the toilet.

  4. Step 4

    It may not work for all toddlers, but you could also try incentives such as little prizes (e.g., stickers, lollipop, etc.) when he/she goes on the toilet. You can also keep a chart on the wall next to the toilet to let your little one know of his/her progress; for example, with 3 successful uses of the toilet, a prize is given.

  5. Step 5

    To reinforce good behavior, alsways clearly praise the child whenever he/she uses the toilet. Clap, pat him/her on the back, and use words of praise and encouragement (e.g., good boy/girl, I'm so proud, etc.).

Comments  

Traqqer said

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on 10/28/2009 Obviously each parent takes a risk with whatever they do for their child. You just have to monitor your kids so that they don't become addicted to donuts. It all depends on each individual kids. I don't think you understand, so let may say this very clearly, not all kids are born the same. They will not all become addicted to mini powdered donuts.

mgregoir said

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on 10/27/2009 My sister tried the treat method and before long my nephew associated going to the bathroom with mini powdered donuts. Now, I'm wondering if she's going to have a weight issue on her hands.

kim82600 said

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on 10/8/2008 Thanks for the ideas!

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