Learning to use the toilet is an important step in every young child’s life, providing them with a new level of independence and autonomy. However, the road to success isn’t always easy for parents or kids, even once it’s time to start preschool. The four tips below will help little ones graduate from pull-ups to the potty. 

4 Tips for Potty Training Before Preschool 

1. Use Role Models

Kids take cues from others, whether it’s friends, siblings, parents, or teachers. When potty training, day care teachers may have one of the child’s friends accompany them to the bathroom. The trained child goes first so the child who’s learning can see there’s nothing to fear. If your little one has siblings close to their age, try this at home. Reading books about potty training will also offer your child examples to follow. 

2. Provide Options

Some children are intimidated by toilets, with their loud noises and swirling water. Many parents start kids out with a potty designed for children’s comfort. However, some children refuse to use these pint-size potties because they know they’re not what everyone else is using. In this case, pull a stool up to the regular toilet to help your child get on. You may also need to help them steady themselves or hold their hand as they go, since the seat may be too large for them. 

3. Be Patient

Be encouraging, positive, and reinforce good behavior while gently redirecting negative behaviors throughout the process. Understand that accidents can and will likely happen, even in preschool. Sometimes, this is because a child isn’t feeling well or isn’t able to make it to the toilet on time. If a child has frequent accidents or wants to regress to diapers, don’t fret; it’s perfectly normal. Repeat old tactics, like suggesting bathroom breaks frequently, or try a reward chart with stickers that tracks their success. 

4. Set a Schedule

Children respond well to structure and routines. Just like you set a schedule for meals and bedtime, set a plan for potty training. For kids struggling with potty training, you may need to bring them to the bathroom once every half an hour. Talk to them about recognizing signs that they need to go, such as the urge to hop or squirm when their bladder is full. If your little one is reticent about letting you or teachers at preschool or day care know when they have to go, encourage them to speak up. 

Enrolling your little one in a preschool like First Steps Southbury Day Care and Learning Center in New Haven County, CT, will help prepare them for success in the classroom and beyond. This caring and supportive early childhood education center specializes in working with kids from eight weeks to 10 years old, with a variety of programs to meet your needs and schedule. Call (203) 264-3735 to speak with a friendly team member or visit the website to learn more about their services.