Potty Training: Is Your Child Ready?
For many parents, POTTY TRAINING can feel like one of the most daunting milestones in early childhood.
One day you’re changing nappies, and the next you’re navigating toilet trips, accidents, and being lead cheerleader! But how do you know when your child is truly READY?
The truth is, there’s no universal perfect age for potty training. Every child is different, and starting too early – before your child shows signs of readiness – can often lead to frustration for both you and your little one.
How To Know If Your Child Is Ready
While some children may be ready to start around 18 months, others may not show much interest until well after their third birthday - and that’s absolutely normal. Rather than focusing on age, it’s much more helpful to look out for signs of readiness.
Physical Signs
- Your child stays dry for two or more hours during the day or wakes up dry from naps.
- They have regular, predictable bowel movements.
- They can walk to and from the bathroom and sit steadily on a potty or toilet.
Cognitive and Communication Skills
- They understand and can follow simple instructions.
- They use words or gestures to let you know they’ve gone or need to go.
- They start to show curiosity about toileting—perhaps watching you or older siblings and wanting to copy.
Emotional and Behavioural Readiness
- They’re starting to show a desire for independence.
- They dislike being in a wet or soiled nappy and may ask to be changed.
- They can manage basic tasks like pulling their trousers up and down.
Why Readiness Matters
Starting potty training before your child is genuinely ready can lead to power struggles, stress, and setbacks. On the other hand, waiting until they show real interest and capability usually makes the process smoother, quicker, and far less stressful.
Children who are ready tend to pick it up faster, have fewer accidents, and feel proud of their progress - which is a brilliant boost to their confidence and growing independence.
Setbacks Are Normal (and Perfectly Okay)
Even once you’ve begun, it’s completely normal for things to go a bit backwards now and then. Changes in routine - like starting nursery, travelling, or welcoming a new sibling - can cause temporary hiccups in your child’s progress.
This isn’t a failure - it’s part of the learning curve. The key is to stay calm, consistent, and supportive. Your child will take their cues from you, so the more relaxed and patient you are, the more secure and confident they’ll feel.
Don't know where to start?
If you’re feeling unsure of where to start - or maybe you’ve already tried and hit a wall - know that many parents have been in your shoes. Potty training often raises loads of questions:
- “What if my child refuses to sit on the potty?”
- How do I manage accidents without losing my patience?”
- “Should I use pull-ups? What about rewards?”
- “Am I doing this right?!”
This Is Where the MyMama Potty Boss Workshop Comes In!
To take the guesswork (and stress!) out of potty training, MyMama offers the Potty Boss Workshop - designed especially for parents who want to feel more confident, informed, and prepared.
Led by certified potty training consultant and psychology professional Janita Falschlunger, who understands both the developmental and emotional sides of potty training, this workshop offers a practical, evidence-based approach tailored to today’s parenting.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A clear, step-by-step potty training plan
- Insight into your child’s cues, temperament, and needs
- Advice for overcoming common hurdles with calm and creativity
- Practical tools and routines to suit your family’s lifestyle
- Live Q&A to talk through your specific concerns
Whether you’re preparing to start or want a reset after a bumpy first go, this workshop is here to support you. Visit this link to learn more and book your spot: https://www.mymama.mt/potty-boss
