Though it may seem the case if you’ve already attempted to supervise potty training, teaching your child to transition from nappies and use the toilet unaided doesn’t need to be a complicated task! Notoriously tough and requiring patience on your part, we’re here to let you know that this important developmental step can be as simple as you like. Let our responsible childcare professionals at Little Acorns Day Nursery guide you through just some of the top tips and processes we would encourage you to try out, with additional information on how we can assist within our nursery setting.
The Basics
Potty training is a somewhat daunting task, especially if your child is reluctant to ditch those nappies, but it requires patience on the part of both child and adult. Using a potty is a new skill for your child to learn, therefore as a basic point, go at your child’s pace. Being thoughtful with how difficult this can be for some toddlers will help them to get it right, even if you sometimes feel frustrated that their progress may have stalled.
There are a number of tried and tested methods when it comes to tackling the issue of toilet training, though the most important point of recognition is to remain calm and consistent in your approach. If your child is starting to show signs that he or she is ready to stop wearing nappies, then you should start potty training if the time is right. Not always a quick and easy process, it often only takes one or two successful attempts and your child will be eager to replicate the self-confidence gained through praise or reward.
Encouragement And Processes
At Little Acorns Day Nursery, we believe in the importance of set processes and encouragement as far as potty training is concerned. To start off, you may want to introduce sitting on the potty as part of your child’s normal day when they’re around 18 months to 2 years of age, though this may begin even earlier in some cases. Most children won’t want to go to school in nappies, though you should never force a child to begin potty training before they seem ready.
Situationally, you should try potty training when there are no great disruptions or changes to your child or family’s routine. If you go out, it may also be wise to take the potty with you so your child understands that you’d like them to use the potty every time they need to go. Within our nursery setting, we can help out with your existing potty training routine – simply let us know what the needs of your child are, and we can continue with any existing routines or habits.
Rewards To Routines
Rewarding your child as they make their transition to using a potty can certainly be effective, incentivising them as they build upon a routine. Some children can be tempted to use the potty if offered a reward afterwards, and while treats such as sweets and food items should be avoided, stickers, small prizes and incentives such as trips to a park or cinema may work well.
Progressive rewards may be one way to incentivise your child in some cases, for example, begin by offering a reward for simply sitting on the toilet, then later offer a reward only if the child actually uses it. This avoids instances in which a child approaches the potty, only to sit on it and expect an immediate reward. Rewards and incentives can be removed once the child has fully transitioned.
Known locally for our fantastic childcare services, Little Acorns Day Nursery are a distinguished centre with experienced staff, supportive facilities and a number of awards which have recognised our high standard of care. If you live or work around the Hedge End or Eastleigh area, feel free to pass by to give us a visit! Contact today for more details.