How do I know that my toddler is ready to start potty training?

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How do I know that my toddler is ready to start potty training?

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Going to the bathroom seems simple. But for a toddler, it takes a combination of coordinated skills she might not have yet.

Here's what your child needs to know before she can master the potty:

How it feels when she needs to use the bathroom
How to connect that feeling with the need to use a toilet
How to make it to the bathroom without getting distracted along the way
How to walk to the potty, take off her pants and sit down
When to tell a parent or caregiver that she needs to use the potty

Many kids may not be ready to start potty training until age 2 and a half or 3. But you can at least lay the foundations.

Start talking about the body and the process of going to the bathroom.
Have her sit on the potty so she's comfortable with it by the time she is ready to start training. It may also be helpful for her to watch a parent or other children.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.

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