Toilet training is one of those parts of parenting that people have lots of different ideas about how to do it. I think you have to find what is right for each child and parent combination.
Our 2nd son we felt pressured to train earlier than we’d have like and it took longer than we’d hoped. Our 3rd son we waited until he was ready and it was done and dusted within 3 days!
So now we are on son number 4 and this is how we are doing.
He is 2 years and 10 months.
This potty has been in the living room for a long time and he has used it when we’ve let him have an airing.
I have found that my children have not been keen on the plain, cheap pottys but this frog has really been a hit. The top comes off for easy emptying. I take it out with me in the car as they like the familiarity of their own potty (some children prefer to go straight onto the toilet).
As it was half term last week there was little pressure to have to leave the house so we begun.
No nappies in the day – even at nap time.
I started with him just wearing pants, and then a few days in pants and trousers.
Yes there was lots of washing but he is getting there.
We have a duck toilet seat and a step to help make it easier for him to be independent.
I regularly sit him on the potty/toilet and reward him when he uses it (including at first by just sitting on).
OK this is bad parenting here but I’ve used haribos and chocolate buttons as well as praise.
If you want to be a “good” parent you could try a sticker reward chart, or maybe a small toy or something.
For me toilet training is also about teaching them hygiene so they like these liquid soap dispensers.
By Thursday we were ready to leave the house – and did a short journey.
Friday was his swimming lesson and so slightly further.
By the weekend we were out the house for over 3 hours (with his potty) and he only had 1 accident whilst out.
Yesterday he only had 1 accident all day (in the morning) and this included a session at playgroup.
Once he is dry in the day we will leave it a while before attempting the nights – but will judge that on how dry his nappies are.