Potty training doesn’t need to be stressful. As your child gains more independence, they might start showing an interest in using the bathroom like the rest of the family. This is a major child development milestone for both kids and parents, and it often takes place between 1.5 years and 2.5 years of age.

The important thing to remember, shares Great Beginnings in St. Charles, MO, is each child becomes accustomed to potty training in their own time. While some might get the hang of it in just a week, others can take a year or more to fully master the toilet. These experts have shared three tips for making potty training easier.

3 Potty Training Tips From Child Development Experts

1. Get a Potty Chair

Using an adult-sized toilet can be intimidating for many toddlers. Invest in a potty chair that allows them to sit with their feet securely on the ground. You’ll need to take frequent bathroom breaks during training, so feel free to put the potty in a convenient spot. Encourage them to explore their chair and practice often to get them used to climbing on and balancing.

2. Start Off With Potty Training Sessions

In the beginning, dedicate a few hours in the morning and evening to potty training. Your routine should be the same, with a potty break every 15 minutes. Even if your little one doesn’t need to go, it will get them used to the toilet. Set a time limit for these sessions, and then put them back in their diaper. Gradually increase the time per session as you and your toddler get accustomed to this new routine.

3. Get Creative With Your Rewards

Use positive reinforcement and rewards to build your toddler’s self-esteem and keep potty training fun. Each time they use the bathroom correctly, give them praise and small rewards like stickers and hand stamps. You can also let them choose their own prize.

Having a strong support system in place is one of the best ways to help your toddler master potty training. Great Beginnings provides parents with the developmental and educational support their children need at every age. From bottle-feeding and potty training to mathematics and penmanship, this center sets a strong foundation for your little one to learn, grow, and be happy. To learn more about their child development programs, visit their website or call their location in St. Charles at (636) 724-5048 or the facility in Cottleville at (636) 447-4212.