Potty training alone is one of the most important developmental milestones for a young child. Along with walking and starting to talk, these learnings mark their growth, leaving the baby stage behind.
However, while starting and starting with the first words comes more naturally, the transition from diaper to potty or toilet is a somewhat more complex task.
The little ones are still not fully aware of this biological need and control of their sphincters resists them. In the process, to the already more than assimilated – but no less tedious for that – changing diapers, we must add one more headache. Constant questions and dialogue with the child so that he understands what is happening, frantic runs to the bathroom, several changes of clothes a day and the occasional whining.
In order for this learning to be pleasant and to avoid as much as possible the frustration of parents and children, it is necessary to arm yourself with patience. Try to go little by little, always focusing on the experience through positive reinforcement and never through scolding or punishment. Remember to put yourself in the place of your son or daughter, because although it seems easy to you, for them it is a titanic challenge.
Each case is different and on these occasions, the opinions of third parties are a constant bombardment. “Mine has been going alone for months”, “but he still wears a diaper?”, “You should do this or that”. Ok, yes, the advice is appreciated, but the instinct of each father and mother is the best criterion to move in the right direction.
In this circumstance, consulting with your trusted pediatrician will also be helpful. But in addition, there are certain behaviors that will indicate that your child is ready to start the process of going to the bathroom alone.
These have been compiled by the American Katie Fenske, specialized in training little ones to go to the bathroom alone. On her TikTok social network account @itspottytyme (with more than 36 thousand followers) she has shared a video where she reveals seven signs to know that the time has come to say goodbye to diapers.
Katie emphasizes that the child does not have to show all seven signs to be ready, but that these are a good indicator to know. In any case, it is important to insist that each child will have their personal needs and circumstances with regard to this learning.
