How to Get Help With Potty Training Your Toddler

Getting help with potty training will make the transition from diapers to underwear a good experience for toddler and parents.

Potty training is a huge milestone for parents and toddlers. However, getting to the point of being fully potty trained may be much more difficult than just sitting your child on a potty. The first rule of thumb in potty training is to not push your child into using the potty if she's not interested or doesn't show any signs of readiness. The time to start is when she is interested and excited about using the potty. The best way to find out about different potty-training methods and what will work best for your child is to seek out help.

Things You'll Need

• Potty-training books and videos
• Other parents
• Pediatrician

Instructions

1. Read a variety of potty-training books. Each should have information on different training methods so you can decide which will be best for you and your toddler. Books such as "Potty Training in One Day" and "Guide to Toilet Training" are excellent resources.

2. Buy books for your toddler that will help her to understand using the potty. These will be excellent for her to look at during the day while she's trying to use the potty, or for you to read to her at bedtime. Two good books are "Everyone Poops" and "I Want My Potty".

3. Ask friends who have experience with potty training for help and advice. They can share what training methods worked for them, and other hints.

4. Research online. Helpful sources for parenting and potty-training information include askdrsears.com and parents.com.

5. Refer to your pediatrician for additional information and help with potty training.

6. Watch informational videos with your child to help her understand more about potty training.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Potty Training
• Parents: 15 Favorite Potty Training Books
• Ask Dr Sears: Toilet Training