LET’S TALK TOILETING!
Before we get into the tips, here is the foundation that all successful toilet training is built on…
DO NOT STRESS!
The last thing you want to do is to try and force toileting as everyone involved will just end up hating the whole experience. Instead, try to embrace it and expect that it won’t go perfectly.
Each child will reach this milestone in their own time and believe me, it IS different for every child.
So, I’m far from being an expert but through toilet training my own two boys and hearing the MANY horror stories from other parents here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
Give yourself time
Sometimes the best starting point is a quiet weekend at home where the little one can wander around au natural. Have a potty ready (if you choose this route) or be ready to grab and run to the toilet.
Get the child involved
Let them pick their pants out after the toilet, as this will give them a sense of ownership and pride.
Try not to ask too much
How many times a day do we hear ‘Muuuummmmy, Daddddyyyy’ and think ‘my God if only I could change my name!’
The same goes for them. If every five minutes they get ‘do you need the toilet?’ or ‘Shall we try for a wee now?’ they are going to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Instead, try setting a timer. Knowing how full those nappies used to get you will know if this needs to be 15, 20 or 30 mins apart. Alternatively, you could aim for 15 mins after they have had a drink
Encourage self-care
Get them wiping their bum early on. If you do it for them every time you’re sure to encounter some skids as they gain independence in this area
Make sure their clothes have a little room in them
The last thing you want is your little one going in for gold only for them to struggle to pull their bottoms down. At this age they are so distracted they WILL leave it to the very last minute!
Celebrate every success
Kids thrive off approval and the look of joy on a parent’s face. So make a big deal do a touchdown dance or sing a silly song. Positive reinforcement can/will never be a bad thing. Alternatively, some children really like to have a sticker chart. If it works and the child feels like the king of the world, DO IT.
Remember your 6’P’s!
Prior preparation and planning prevent poor performance! If you are heading out be prepared, encouraging a trip to the toilet before you set off and spares in abundance for whilst you are out. If you don’t feel confident with the odd ‘wild wee’ here and there make sure where you are heading has facilities galore!
Bernie Neale – Muddy Boots Acomb Manager
