by Rachel Howells

Created on: June 14, 2009   Last Updated: January 13, 2010

Determining when your child is ready for potty training is not as difficult as it may sound. Children will naturally evolve into potty readiness. The trick is to be aware of the developmental telltale signs that a toddler is ready to be trained. Waiting until you notice these signs will make potty training a much easier and more enjoyable process for everyone involved.

~ Can Communicate Discomfort ~

A good indication of potty readiness is when a toddler can communicate that his or her diaper needs to be changed. This does not necessarily need to be verbal communication; although by the age of potty readiness, toddlers can usually express themselves with at least simple two and three word sentences. An example of a non-verbal cue is when a toddler tries to take off his own diaper because it is soiled or wet.

~ Understands What the Potty Is Used For ~

Cognitively, in addition to communicating their need to go to the bathroom, toddlers are ready when they show an interest and understanding of the potty concept. Initially, even before you want to begin potty training in earnest, it is a good idea to casually expose your toddler to the potty. You can do this by simply having one situated in the bathroom. There should be no pressure at this early stage. Encourage your little one to sit on the potty, but do not force the issue. The main goal during this preliminary time is to make your child aware of the potty.

Once the potty is an established fixture in the bathroom, take note of when your toddler begins to show potty comprehension. Indications of this milestone cognition include sitting on the potty independently, pulling on the toilet paper roll, or saying words related to the bathroom such as "me go potty,"  or "I gotta go."

~ Control Over Bodily Functions ~

When toddlers are able to tell you they have to go to the bathroom before they actually go, this is another good sign. It demonstrates that with a little practice and parental guidance they are developmentally and physically ready to learn the self control necessary for toilet use.

~ Advancement of Fine Motor Skills ~

When young children begin to show some mastery over their fine motor skills, this is a further indication of potty readiness. For example, when children are able to fully or partially undress, this is classic sign that they are ready to use the toilet on their own.

~ Improved Regularity ~

When a child can go 3 to 4 hours without having to relieve him or herself and there is more urine output at a go, it is time to introduce the potty. A toddler who routinely wakes up from naps with a dry diaper is also ready to meet the potty. A final sign of improved regularity is when bowel movements seem to be following a pattern and do not occur during the night while the child is sleeping.

Through knowing your child, having a basic awareness of the developmental stages, and recognizing the signs of potty readiness, you can determine for yourself when your toddler is ready for the potty. By waiting until the time is right, even busy parents can, with minimal effort, teach their toddlers to use the toilet within a relatively short period of time.

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