A Parent’s Guide to Success
Embarking on the journey of potty training with your toddler can be both exciting and challenging. As a parent, witnessing your little one take those first steps towards independence is a significant milestone. At Ardent Preschool & Daycare we partner with our families to help make potty training as easy as possible. Below are some helpful tips to use when potty training your little one.
Timing is Key:
The ideal time to start potty training varies for each child, but it’s generally recommended to begin when your toddler shows signs of readiness. Look for cues such as staying dry for longer periods, expressing discomfort with dirty diapers, or showing interest in the bathroom. At Ardent, we begin potty training around two years old.
Create a Potty-Friendly Environment:
Make the bathroom an inviting and comfortable space for your toddler. Invest in a child-sized potty chair or a seat reducer for the regular toilet to ensure a secure and comfortable experience. Decorate the space with their favorite characters or use colorful accessories to make it more appealing. Ardent offers age appropriate bathrooms in the classroom so it is accessible for children. Our teachers are looking for cues, and are ready to assist when your child is ready to go.
Consistency and Routine:
Establish a consistent potty routine to help your toddler understand when it’s time to use the potty. Encourage them to sit on the potty at regular intervals, such as after meals or before bedtime. Consistency is key to reinforcing the habit. Ardent Teachers will encourage your child to use the potty throughout their day, so the responsibility doesn’t fall only onto your child in the early stages of potty training. If you are able to continue this routine at home, the potty-training experience can be easier for your child, parents and teachers. Consistency is key!
Positive Reinforcement:
Celebrate every success, no matter how small. Offer praise, claps, or a small reward when your toddler uses the potty successfully. Celebrating successes is a shared goal between parents and Ardent Teachers. Positive reinforcement helps create a positive association with using the toilet.
Model Behavior:
Ardent Teachers serve as positive role models for your child during the potty training process. We ask that parents encourage their children at home and allow them to ask questions. Through gentle guidance and encouragement, the process is demystified, assuring your toddler that using the toilet is a natural and normal part of growing up.
Patience is a Virtue:
Potty training is a journey filled with ups and downs. There will be accidents, and that’s perfectly normal. Stay patient, remain calm, and avoid expressing frustration. Your encouragement and support are crucial during this learning process.
Choose the Right Gear:
Ardent Preschool & Daycare recommends investing in training pants and clothing that are easy to pull up and down. This helps your toddler become more independent in managing their bathroom needs.
Make it Fun:
Turn potty time into an enjoyable experience. Consider using books, toys, or interactive games to keep your toddler engaged while sitting on the potty. This can help make the process less intimidating and more enjoyable.
Potty training is a significant developmental milestone for your toddler, and with the right approach, it can be a positive and rewarding experience for both of you. By creating a supportive and encouraging environment, being patient, and celebrating each success, you’ll be well on your way to a successful potty training adventure with your little one. At Ardent Preschool & Daycare, we are here to partner with you to equip your child with the tools they need to be independent and successful. Together, parents and teachers create a nurturing and encouraging atmosphere for toddlers, ensuring a successful and rewarding potty training adventure.
