Is it time to say goodbye to diapers? If so, start with our potty training checklist to make sure it’s the right time.
I know – it seems like yesterday when you changed your baby’s first diaper. But now you’re wondering if it’s time for potty training – and we’ve got you covered.
What is the perfect age for potty training?
Contrary to what your friends and family may have told you, there is no magic age when children are ready to make the “big switch”. Some babies start showing signs of readiness between 18 and 24 months. Some are ready between 2 ½ and 3 years old, and some parents wait until their child is 4 years old to begin.
We’ve compiled a useful checklist to use when thinking about potty training. Keep in mind that starting earlier doesn’t mean finishing faster – rather, the process will likely just take longer.
This checklist is not meant to be all-inclusive – you don’t need to wait until every box is checked. Just look for the trend toward independence, and their desire to go to the bathroom.
Physical Signs
- Walking and running, fairly steady
- Has bowel movements on a regular schedule
- Has “dry spells” for least 3 or 4 hours
- Urinates enough to fill a diaper
Behavioral Signs
- Can pull her pants up by herself
- Can sit quietly without moving for four to five minues
- Begins to show signs of disliking a dirty diaper
- Prefers pull ups over diapers
- Becomes interested in parent’s bathroom habits
- Shows physical signs of bowel movements – squatting, grunting, etc.
- Isn’t resistant to using a toilet
Cognitive Signs
- Can follow directions, such as “put away the book”
- Has words for stool and urine
- Understands putting things back in their proper place
- Beginning to understand her own physical signs that she has to go to the bathroom
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