Toilet training is one of the biggest milestones for any toddler in early childhood. Parents often wonder, What age should you start toilet training? or How long does it take to potty train a toddler? The truth is, every child is different, but there are clear signs to look out for, and helpful strategies that can make the journey a little less messy.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

What Age Should You Start Toilet Training?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but most children show signs of readiness between 18 months and 3 years. The best age to potty train is when your child starts showing interest in the bathroom routine and has the physical ability to stay dry for a few hours. In a 2023 report by the American Urological Association, by two to three years old, the child gains control over the sphincter and pelvic floor muscles and can hold back the flow of urine until they reach a toilet. 

 

Related story: 10 Ways To Support Your Child's Mental Health

 

Signs a Toddler Is Ready for Potty Training

If your child is showing a few of these signs, it may be time to begin toilet training for your kids. Recognising the right moment makes all the difference. Here are a few key indicators:

• Stays dry for longer periods: If your toddler’s nappy stays dry for two hours or more, it shows they can hold their bladder. This is an important step in bladder control.
• Watch or follow you to the toilet: Many toddlers become curious about what adults do in the bathroom. If your child follows you or starts asking questions, it’s a sign they’re interested and aware of the process.
• Dislikes or gets uncomfortable in dirty nappies: If your child urges you to change right after they’ve soiled their diaper, or tries to remove it themselves, it may be a sign your toddler is ready for toilet training. 
• Start to follow simple directions: Being able to understand and respond to basic instructions like “come here” or “sit down” is essential. Potty training involves following steps, and this shows they can manage that.
• Tells you when they’re going—or about to go: Your toddler may let you know with words, signs like directing towards genitals, pulling pants down, or facial expressions when they need to wee or poo. This kind of awareness is a major green light.

 

Related story: How to Inculcate Body Positivity in Your Child

 

How to Potty Train: Making the Transition Smooth

Trying to rush or pressure a child into potty training before they’re ready can actually backfire in several ways. For one, it can lead to fear and anxiety. In other words, if a child is pushed too hard, they may associate the toilet with stress, often resulting in avoidance and resistance. Additionally, the pressure can cause some children to hold in their bowel movements, leading to painful constipation. 

Learning how long does it take to potty train a toddler? There’s no single answer. Some kids get it in a few days, others take weeks or months. The key is patience and encouragement.  Once you see the readiness signs, the next question is: How to potty train effectively?  Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

 

1. Familiarise them With the Idea: To make a child teach something new, you must talk about it every day. Start talking about potty training in everyday moments. Use simple language like, “You’re growing up and soon you’ll use the toilet like Mum or Dad.” You can also show videos of toilet training to kids to help them understand and make it feel normal. Introducing a new habit will definitely take time but gradually, they will understand. 

 

Related story: 8 Ways to Enhance Resilience in Children Through Creativity

 

2. Choose the Right Potty Chair: Next comes the right tool for toilet training. A good child-sized toilet seat can make a big difference. Choose something stable and easy to clean. Let your child help pick it out. When they feel part of the process, they’re more likely to be excited about using it.

 

3. Create a Simple Routine: Routine builds confidence. Even if they don’t go every time, it helps them understand when to try. Start by encouraging your child to sit on the potty:

• After meals
• Before naps
• First thing in the morning
• Right before bed

 

Related Story: Building Good Habits in Kids - How to Give Back During Holidays

 

4. Encourage Their Efforts: Every little win counts. Praise them if they sit on the potty or try to pull their pants down on their own. Kids will catch up on these new changes and try to do it more often. Use claps, peck on cheeks, healthy snack bites, or a small happy dance. Encouragement helps build self-esteem and keeps the process positive.

 

5. Be Prepared for Accidents: Since it is a learning period, accidents are inevitable. You cannot expect toddlers to learn everything in a day. There will be several challenges for you as a parent to teach your kids toilet training. When they do, stay calm. Avoid punishment or frustration. Gently remind your child that learning takes time and reassure them it’s okay.

Related story: 20 Phrases Your Child Wants To Hear

 

Your potty training journey will have its own ups, downs, and surprises. What matters most is not rushing the process. Wait for the signs, equip yourself with the right tools and expectations, and support your child every step of the way. The journey of toilet training requires patience, observation, and adaptability. By recognising readiness signs, establishing routines, and providing consistent support, you can guide your child through this developmental milestone with confidence. 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.