Toilet training is an important milestone for both parents and children. This subject has been in the news a lot lately regarding late training of children and the difficulties this entails. At Inspirations we often support parents to potty train their children, working together and communicating throughout. Before your child reaches three years old, they may be developmentally ready for the transition to using the toilet. However, every child is different, and patience is key. Here are some practical tips to make toilet training a smoother experience for both you and your preschooler.

1. Recognise the Signs of Readiness:

• Staying dry for longer periods
• Expressing discomfort with dirty diapers
• Showing interest in using the toilet
• Being able to follow simple instructions
• Communicating when they need to go

2. Create a Positive Environment

Make the toilet-training experience positive and stress-free. Use encouraging words, go shopping and let your child choose their own fun underwear and potty or toilet seat, avoid pressure or punishment. A relaxed positive approach will help prevent resistance.

3. Establish a Routine

Consistency is crucial and the more consistent the quicker the process. Begin to use the pants they chose and only keep nappies for bedtime. Once in pants stay in pants. Avoid pull- ups as they are too similar to nappies, without feeling the discomfort, children will not feel the need to use the toilet. Take your child to the toilet at regular intervals, every one to two hours to build a habit and other times such as after meals or before bedtime. It is easy to forget but this does make a big difference. Celebrate any successes and don’t become complacent after wards, continue regularly sitting them on the potty.

4. Use Training Tools

Consider using training aids like:

•  A child-friendly potty chair
• A toilet seat reducer
• Books and videos about potty training
• A reward system (stickers, praise, or small treats)

5. Encourage and Celebrate Success

Every small step is progress. Celebrate your child’s successes, even if they are minor, to build their confidence. Positive reinforcement can make a huge difference. If they see your joy after any small attempt, they will be more likely to want to do it again.

6. Be Prepared for Accidents

Accidents will happen—it’s part of the process. Keep extra clothes handy and clean up without frustration. Reassure your child that accidents are okay and that they will improve with time. Staling a few minutes to change them into nice dry clothes gives time for the child
to feel the discomfort, rather than rushing to get them out of them. Don’t give up and think they are not ready, they are just learning.

7. Teach Good Hygiene

Instil proper hygiene habits by teaching your child to:

• Wipe properly (front to back for girls)
• Flush the toilet
• Wash their hands with soap and water

Toilet training a child requires patience, encouragement, and consistency. By creating a supportive and positive environment, you can help your child successfully transition to using the toilet. Remember, setbacks are normal—stay positive, and soon your little one will be
nappy-free!