Potty Training.

Potty Training can be very hard and also scarey for the child as they have to get used to not wearing a nappy and remembering that they will need to ask to go to the toilet.

But it don't have to be and you can make it fun for them, so when they do go to the toilet (weather it's the potty or toilet) make them smile, laugh and show them what they have done. When they see a smile on your face you will see a smile on theirs.

For the first week I would say stay at home and do it so they are in their "safe place" and happy with their surroundings. Once they have managed going on a regularly take them to the next step and go outside. But try not to to crowed areas go to the local park or a playing field.

But remember to take a potty with you so they can go while they are out. There is no right age to start potty training your child and starting early could be a bonus for you but in other cases might not work.

I would always go on the child, and when they are ready, or start training them when they turn 3 years old as by this time they understand the word toilet and see you going to the toilet also makes them think that they can do it.

Another good way to teach them is to let them see you going so when you go to the toilet take them with you and let them sit in front of you while you go. It's also very good for them to watch daddy go to the toilet as well. You will notice this makes a difference.

Also make an award chart for them and for every day they go to the toilet or either on the potty give them a tick or sticker and let them do it or see you do it. If they have an accident then just say "it's ok we can make it up next time". At the end of the week reward them with a toy.

This doesn't have to be expensive something from the charity shop or poundland as they are young they don't understand about the value of money and to be honest they won't even care how much it costs to them it's a toy.

Once they see that they will be rewarded for using the toilet or potty you will notice more changes. Then once you have managed that start taking them further places like to town or a friends house further away.

Try to teach them to hold their self's until you get to where you need to go (only do this once they are fully dry during the day).  If you are going to teach them for night time I wouldn't rush this but a few tips that can help is making them have a last drink before 6PM and no more after.

Before bed time make them go to the toilet, when you go to bed wake them up (I know that sounds hursh but does work) and make them go again. This will pay off and if your child is a deep sleeper remember to wake them during the night.

These tips will work and there will be accidents but remember that is all part of the process.

Let me know how you get on or if you would like any more tips or if you have any questions.