In the 'grown-up toilet' all by yourself, that's exciting! Becoming toilet trained is a big milestone for your child and for you as a parent. On average, this happens between the ages of 2 and 3, but every child develops at their own pace. Is your child potty trained at a later age? No problem! It is especially important that you do not force your child into this development, because that can be counterproductive. How do you know when your child is ready for this big step and how can you as a parent or caregiver provide support on the road to toilet training? You can read it all in this blog.
When is your child ready to be toilet trained?
When your child is ready to be toilet trained, your child will indicate this to you with various signals. Below you can read examples of these signals.
- Imitate behavior around going to the toilet
For example, pulling down his pants when your child notices that he or she has to pee, sitting on the toilet or putting dolls on the toilet. - Your child can already categorize: knows what belongs where
Your child shows you that toilet paper belongs in the toilet room - Your child says or shows that he or she has to pee or poop
For example, by wiggling the hips, squeezing or crossing the legs, or reaching for the diaper area - Your child can sit, stand up and walk independently
When your child can push off with both feet at the same time and make a jump, the muscles are sufficiently developed and your child is physically ready to start toilet training. - Your child shows an interest in toilet training and is curious
For example, your child goes with you to the toilet and asks questions - Your child shows that he or she does not like dirty pants (anymore).
Most children start their interest between the ages of 1.5 and 2. But this happens at your own pace.
In addition to these signals, it is important that you as a parent or caregiver are also ready for this new phase. The correct period also plays an important role. Start in a quiet period when your child experiences little tension or fuss. For example, a period without birthdays or holidays.
Support your child on the road to toilet training in 3 steps
Through the different signals your child gives, you have noticed that he or she is ready to become toilet trained. This means that it is time to support your child in this. We also call this toilet training. Please note that this requires an average of three months of time investment.
Below you can read 3 steps that you can follow to support your child during his or her development towards toilet training.
Step 1: Get used to the toilet
Let your child get used to the toilet slowly. A good posture is important here; your child sits relaxed and without straining on the toilet while his or her feet are supported. Show your child that he or she does not have to perform every toilet moment. The toilet is a new room and that is quite exciting. Provide positive reinforcement to the child!
Do you notice that your child finds this very exciting? First let him get used to the potty, but in the toilet room, so that your child gets used to the space.
Tip: booklets such as 'Carel on the potty' can help you with this. You can read more book tips further down in this blog.
Step 2: Regular moments on the toilet
Rest and regularity are important factors during toilet training. Therefore, allow your child to sit on the toilet without a diaper at a number of fixed times every day. It is important that your child experiences this as a pleasant moment. You can do this, among other things, by being available and letting your child sit quietly on the toilet for a few minutes. Give compliments and positive attention. This makes it a nice moment.
Tip: The best times are before and after sleeping and after all eating and drinking moments or when your child indicates this.
Step 3: Diaper out
Does your child pee on the toilet during the day? Then his or her diaper can be taken off during the day. If your child also has dry diapers at night, you can also leave the diaper off overnight. Keep in mind that it will take your child longer to potty train at night than during the day.
Tip: Let your child pee before going to sleep.
Tips for toilet training
- Keep it fun, playful and relaxed
- Stay patient
- Have confidence in your child and express this
- Expect small steps
- Work together (with childcare, grandparents and other educators)
Book tips
Reading together helps you gain and discover new experiences. By reading books about the toilet or the potty, children become familiar with this. And it fits in with the child's perception of the world. The best thing is to actually read these books in the toilet. This way they can make a link between what you read together and what you see in the environment. This way they can develop more and more self-confidence to eventually go to the toilet themselves!
Are you and your child experiencing problems with toilet training?
If you and your child experience problems with toilet training, the pedagogical professionals at Kibeo are ready to support you and give advice. In addition, an internal supervisor can observe your child at the location and then give you advice.