Potty training & bathroom challenges
One of the most common concerns for parents is potty training. Most common Questions asked by parents are:
- How do I potty train my child?
- When will my child be diaper-free?
- How can my child become independent in toileting?
- Why does my child avoid sitting on the toilet seat?
- What can I do about bedwetting?
Potty training and bathroom-related challenges can be challenging & difficult. These struggles may stem from sensory sensitivities, developmental differences, or psychological factors. Every child is unique, and potty training requires patience, understanding, and adaptation to their needs. However, with the right approach, this milestone can be achieved.
Understanding Toileting Development
Potty training is a process that unfolds at the child’s pace. Here’s what parents need to know:
1.When to Start:
- Potty training typically begins between 18 months and 3 ½ years, depending on the child’s readiness. Starting too early may take longer, but it’s important not to rush. Accidents are a natural part of the journey.
2.Developmental Steps:
- Bladder control develops first, followed by
- Bowel controls as the process progresses.
3.Signs of Readiness:
Look for these indicators that your child is ready to begin toilet training:
- Stay clean and dry for 1-2 hours.
- Showing awareness of the need to use the toilet.
- Communicating (verbally or nonverbally) when they need to go.
4.Obstacles for potty training:
- Communication for bathroom needs
- Unaware of sensory (wet or dry)
- Cognitive level – use of toilet
- Physical fear of toilet or flush sound of toilet
5.Addressing specific toileting challenges:
Avoid sitting on the toilet seat
- Allow to sit without removing lower
- Allow to sit with toilet sit covered
- Use potty seats on the floor rather than up high
- Use timers, screens, picture cards also while sitting on toilet
- Use doll model for teaching
- Understand how long to sit with story form
Fear of flush sound
- Don’t flush until it’s not needed
- Start flush with graded distance from toilet seat to bathroom door
- Let the child know before flushing
- Allow the child to flush
Overly interested in flushing
- Cover the flush
- Give some fidget toy
- Use visual cards to teach sequencing (when to flush )
- Reward with stickers
Playing with water
- Give a distraction toy
- Use padded lap desk while sitting