When To Start Potty Training And Helpful Tips

by Farmers' Almanac Staff Updated: December 11, 2024

Hey parents, do you know when to start potty training? Here are some essential tips to guide you through the process, including some often-overlooked strategies.

How to Potty Train

1. When to Start Potty Training

Watch for Signs of Readiness: Look for signs like staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the toilet, or communicating discomfort with wet or dirty diapers. These are clear indications for when to start potty training.
Choose the Right Time: Many children have a strong urge to use the bathroom upon waking up. Mornings are can be a prime opportunity to encourage them to use the potty. Starting the day with a successful bathroom trip can set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
Use the Best Days Calendar, which tells you when to start potty training for the best results. One reader from Tennessee says, “I was at my wit’s end trying to potty train my 3 year-old and this book has been my saving grace. My mother-in-law said, ‘Why don’t you look at the Farmers’ Almanac Best Days?’ My life has been forever changed.” Watch Haley’s video.
Avoid Starting During Stressful Periods like Moving or a New Sibling. Opt for a time when your child is relatively calm and routine-oriented. (However, If you must potty train during challenging times, here are important suggestions.)

2. The Power of Routine

Consistent Schedule: Establish a regular bathroom routine, such as before meals, after naps, and before bedtime. (See examples of routines below.)
Practice Makes Perfect: Encourage your child to practice sitting on the potty, even if they don’t need to go.

3. Trust Your Child’s Readiness

Avoid Pressure: Don’t force your child to use the potty if they’re not ready. Remember, every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, flexible, and positive throughout the process.
Listen to Their Cues: Pay attention to your child’s signals and respond promptly.

4. Positive Reinforcement and Rewards

Celebrate Successes: Offer specific praise and rewards for using the potty correctly. Small rewards, like stickers, treats, or extra playtime, can be highly motivating.
Avoid Punishment for Accidents: Accidents are a normal part of the learning process. Instead of punishment, focus on positive reinforcement and gentle reminders.

5. Make it Fun

Involve Your Child: Let your child choose their own potty chair or training underwear with their favorite characters.
Read Potty Training Books: Use books and songs to make the process enjoyable and educational.
Turn it into a Game: Make potty time a fun activity, like a race to the potty or a treasure hunt for rewards.

Girl on a pink potty reading a book as she is potty training.

6. Create a Positive Bathroom Environment

Child-Sized Toilet Seat: Make sure your child can reach the toilet seat and floor comfortably.
Bright and Colorful Bathroom: A colorful and inviting bathroom can make the experience more appealing.
Step-by-Step Visual Aids: Use pictures or a checklist to guide your child through the potty training process.

7. The Underwear Switch

Gradual Transition: Start by letting your child wear training pants during the day and regular diapers at night.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child for staying dry in underwear and offer support during accidents.

Examples of Helpful Routines

Here are some examples of routines and routine-orientations that can be helpful during potty training:

Daily Routines

Consistent Wake-Up Time: A regular wake-up time can help establish a consistent bathroom routine.
Scheduled Meal and Snack Times: These can be opportunities to encourage bathroom breaks before and after eating.
Nap and Bedtime Routines: These are prime times for bathroom visits.

Bathroom Routines

Before and After Activities: Encourage bathroom breaks before and after activities like playing, eating, or napping.
Regular Check-Ins: Periodically check in with your child to see if they need to use the bathroom, especially if they seem restless or distracted.

Tips for Establishing Routines

Visual Aids: Use visual aids like a picture schedule or a simple checklist to help your child understand the routine.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your child for following the routine, even small steps like sitting on the potty.
Be Patient and Consistent: Stick to the routine as much as possible, but be flexible if necessary.

By establishing a consistent routine, you can help your child develop a sense of predictability and make the potty training process smoother.

Décor Suggestions

Here are some bright bathroom colors that can make potty training a more fun and engaging experience for your child:

Bright and Cheerful Colors

Sunny Yellow: A cheerful and optimistic color that can create a positive and uplifting atmosphere.
Sky Blue: A calming and serene color that can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Vibrant Green: A refreshing and energizing color that can stimulate creativity and focus.
Sunny Orange: A playful and energetic color that can spark joy and excitement.

Additional Tips

Colorful Accessories: Add colorful towels, rugs, and curtains to create a vibrant and inviting space.
Fun Wall Art: Decorate the walls with colorful artwork or decals that feature your child’s favorite characters.
Bright Lighting: Ensure the bathroom is well-lit to make it easier for your child to see and feel comfortable.

Remember, the key to successful potty training is creating a positive and encouraging environment. By choosing bright and cheerful colors, you can make the bathroom a fun and inviting place for your child.

Tips for Challenges

While it’s ideal to avoid major life changes during potty training, sometimes it’s unavoidable. Here are some tips to help you navigate this challenging situation:

Minimizing Stress

Prioritize Comfort: Ensure your child feels secure and loved. This can help reduce stress and make the transition smoother.
Maintain Routine: Stick to a consistent routine as much as possible, especially meal and sleep times.
Create a Familiar Bathroom Space: In your new home, set up a bathroom that feels familiar. Use familiar items like their potty chair or favorite books.

Effective Potty Training Strategies

Positive Reinforcement: Reward successes, no matter how small. This can help motivate your child, especially during stressful times.
Patience and Understanding: Be patient and understanding. Accidents are normal, especially during periods of change.
Limit Distractions: During potty training sessions, minimize distractions to help your child focus.
Involve Your Child in the Process: Let them choose their own underwear or potty chair. This can make them feel more involved and excited.

Specific Tips for Moves and New Siblings

Moving

Pack Potty Essentials: Pack your child’s potty chair, favorite books, and any other comfort items.
Familiarize with the New Bathroom: Take your child to the new bathroom before the move to help them feel comfortable.
Maintain a Consistent Routine: Stick to the same bathroom routine, even in a new environment.

New Sibling

Prepare Your Child: Talk to your child about the new baby and how their life will change. Use age-appropriate language and be honest.
One-on-One Time: Dedicate special one-on-one time with your older child to help them feel loved and secure.
Involve Your Child: Let your child help with baby care tasks, such as choosing a name or picking out a toy.

Remember, every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, flexible, and positive, and you’ll get through this challenging time together.

How to Make a Sibling Feel Loved During the Process

Quality Time Activities

Shared Hobbies: Engage in activities they love, like reading, playing games, or doing crafts.
Outdoor Adventures: Go for walks, bike rides, or picnics.
Cooking or Baking: Let them help in the kitchen and enjoy a delicious treat together.
Movie Nights: Snuggle up on the couch and watch a favorite movie.
Storytelling: Read books together or create your own stories.

Special Outings

Visit a Museum or Zoo: Explore new places and learn something new.
Go to a Park or Playground: Enjoy some fresh air and physical activity.
Have a Picnic: Pack a lunch and find a scenic spot to relax.

Everyday Moments

Bath Time: Make bath time extra special with bubbles, toys, or songs.
Bedtime Routine: Read stories, sing songs, or simply chat before bed.
Morning Routine: Spend a few quiet moments together before the day starts.

Remember, quality time is more important than quantity. Even a short amount of focused attention can make a big difference.

By dedicating time to your older child, you’re showing them that they’re important and loved. This can help them feel more secure and adjust to the changes in their family.

A Final Thought

Did this article help you understand when to start potty training?

Do you have any tips for other parents?

Share with your community here in the comments!

Farmers' Almanac Staff

This article was published by the staff at Farmers' Almanac. Do you have a question or an idea for an article? Contact us!