When to Begin Potty Training

February 23, 2011

I was watching a segment on Good Morning America this morning about “when to start potty training” your baby. To make potty training as smooth a process as possible for you and your toddler, take a moment to learn what works: Okay, here’s what works... Wait until your child is ready. There's no magic age for being ready to start learning to use the potty. Most toddlers develop the necessary physical and mental skills between 18 and 24 months, while some kids aren't ready until closer to age 3 or even 4. Keep an eye out for physical, cognitive, and behavioral signs that your toddler might be ready to give it a try.

Just remember, you do not have to keep up with the proverbial “Joneses.” You know, the other mommy’s who boast about their successes with potty training. Boastful parent: “Oh, my Sarah stop using diapers at 12 months old.” Your response: “Really! Wow, how nice for you and Sarah.” Stop worrying. Don’t start training your baby when you’re ready or when you think they should be ready. Wait until they’re actually ready. Your life will be better. Your kids bed, linen & clothing will be cleaner and they will have far fewer issues things to stress about. Seriously. Wait. It is so much better this way.