5 Signs A Toddler Is Ready to Potty Train

"Potty training". It's a powerful word combination. It strikes fear in the hearts of some parents as they remember friends and family with toddlers who took forever to toilet train. To others, these words mean sweet freedom. Freedom from lugging around the diaper bag, freedom from the diaper aisle, and freedom from wiping little bottoms several times a day.

There is a reason these words bring both fear and hope for freedom. If training begins too soon for a child who is not ready to use the potty, it can drag on and on and on. But, if toilet training begins at just the right time, with a cooperative and excited toddler, it can mean the beginning of the end for your diaper bag!

So... how do you know when the right time is to begin toilet training your toddler?

Look for these 5 signs that your little one is ready to begin potty training:

Shows an interest in the toilet: Showing an interest in the toilet (or a potty chair if you already own one) can be a sign your toddler is ready to learn to use the toilet.

Notices when he/she pees or poops in his/her diaper: Being aware of his/her own bodily functions is a key sign of readiness.

Has dry times and doesn't poop when sleeping: Having times of dryness, like waking up dry from a nap, is a sign that a toddler has some control of the bladder muscles. Not pooping when sleeping can be a sign of some control over bowel muscles. Having bowel movements around the same time each day can be a sign as well.

Doesn't like being in a dirty diaper: You can often tell your toddler doesn't like being in a dirty diaper if your toddler tries removing the diaper or asks for a diaper change.

Is in a cooperative phase: Using the toilet instead of a diaper is a big transition in a toddler's life. Potty training will not go smoothly if your toddler isn't emotionally ready even if he/she is showing all the signs of being physically ready. If your toddler is in a defiant phase and saying "no" to everything, toilet training may turn into a power struggle and progress slowly. It may be best to wait a little while and begin the training when your toddler seems a bit more easy going and cooperative.

If your toddler is showing these five signs, s/he is probably ready to begin potty training! Now the question is... are you ready?

Is your toddler ready to be potty trained? Come to http://www.toddler-tips-and-tricks.com and check out our potty training section for more tips! Or check out our other sections to find tips on a variety of toddler issues!

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