Toilet Training in Children

Children are generally ready for toilet training between the ages of 18 and 36 months, depending on their developmental progress. However, since every child develops differently, this timeframe may vary. Many parents may experience difficulties when it comes to toilet training their children. Attempting toilet training before a child is ready can become a stressful and frustrating process for both the child and the parents. So, what are the signs that indicate a child is developmentally ready for toilet training?

There are both physical and cognitive signs that show a child’s readiness for toilet training.

Physical Signs

* Being able to walk and sit upright independently

* Staying dry for more than two hours

* Being able to pull down their pants without assistance

* Feeling uncomfortable when their diaper is wet

* Waking up in the morning with a dry diaper

Cognitive Signs

* Being able to understand and follow instructions

* Being able to express themselves (if the child is not yet able to communicate, it may be better to wait before starting toilet training)

* Being able to indicate when they need to urinate or have a bowel movement

 How Should the Training Process Be?

First of all, if you are planning to begin toilet training, it is important that there are no major life changes during this period that could affect the child’s routine, such as divorce or moving to a new home.

The child should already be familiar with concepts such as pee, poop, wet, and dry. Afterwards, a potty chair can be chosen together with the child. The potty should be kept in the bathroom rather than placed randomly around the house. Since having their feet touch the floor helps children feel secure, it is generally recommended to begin training with a potty chair.

If your child appears afraid of the potty, you can first allow them to sit on it while fully clothed so they can gradually become comfortable with it.

Storybooks about toilet training can also help make the process easier. Through storybooks, children can observe where the characters go to the toilet, what they experience, and how they feel during the process, helping them prepare emotionally.

Including toilet training themes in play activities can also be beneficial. Symbolic play can be created using toy potties, dolls, and play dough representing stool. Initially, parents can observe whether the child creates games involving these toys. If not, parents may gently guide them, though it is important not to become overly controlling. The child should also be given opportunities to direct the play.

During toilet training, small rewards may sometimes be used to reinforce positive behaviors such as staying dry or using the potty successfully. These rewards should not be exaggerated; simple treats or stickers may be sufficient. However, using the toilet should not become a ceremonial event with excessive celebration.

To help establish healthy habits, a handwashing routine should always follow toilet use. If your child already has a regular eating schedule, you may roughly predict when they are likely to need the toilet, which can help establish a consistent toilet routine.

How Should Night Training Be Handled?

A child who has become accustomed to staying dry during the day may also begin trying to stay dry at night because they feel uncomfortable when their diaper becomes wet.

For nighttime training, fluid intake before bedtime should be monitored, and the child should always use the toilet before going to sleep. However, just as during daytime training, accidents may still happen at night.

If the child wets the bed, it is very important not to react harshly, shame the child, or yell at them. Instead, children can be given small age-appropriate responsibilities related to cleaning up so they can develop a sense of responsibility. For example, if the child wets the bed, they can be encouraged to help change the sheets in a way suitable for their age.

Throughout this process, parents should strive to remain patient and understanding. It is important to remember that every child develops differently, and setbacks should not lead to hopelessness or discouragement.