Today, we tackle the topic of potty training, an important milestone in child development that often raises questions for parents. As clinicians, we're well-positioned to offer valuable guidance and support to families embarking on this journey. Let’s explore some practical tips to assist families in navigating toilet training with confidence.
Getting Started:
Determining the right time to begin toilet training can be a common concern for parents. Nowadays, kids typically start between 21 and 36 months, but only 40-60% complete toilet training by 36 months. It is essential to recognize individual readiness cues and empower parents to initiate training when their child shows signs of readiness.
Spotting Readiness:
Recognizing signs of readiness is key to a successful toilet training experience. Look out for indicators such as the child:
Staying dry for 2 hours
Asking to be changed
Asking to use the potty
Experiencing regular bowel movements
Asking to wear underwear
Can follow simple spoken instructions
Can communicate to the parent when they need to go to the bathroom
Can pull their pants up and down
Choosing an Approach:
With various toilet training methods available, it is essential to guide parents towards an approach that suits their child's needs and preferences. A child-oriented approach is recommended, emphasizing gradual steps and positive reinforcement. This process is not easily accomplished in a weekend and may take months.
Handling Complications:
Complications such as stool withholding or constipation may occur during toilet training. As clinicians, we can advise on managing these issues and provide necessary referrals. By addressing complications promptly, we can help families overcome obstacles and progress in their toilet training journey.
Nighttime Training:
Achieving nighttime dryness can be a separate challenge. While it may take longer than daytime training, we can offer practical tips to support families, such as establishing a bedtime routine, stopping liquids after a specific time, such as 7 pm, and ensuring easy access to the bathroom during the night.
Supporting Special Needs:
For children with special needs, toilet training may require additional support and understanding. By collaborating with families and caregivers and offering personalized guidance, we can help tailor a plan that meets the unique needs of each child, promoting a positive toilet training experience.
As clinicians, we play a vital role in supporting families through the toilet training process. For more information, listen to our in-depth conversation about toilet training on Primary Care RAP in May 2024.