18-32 months are th age range for potting training, boys start late and take longer. it takes days and montns (3-12 months) to complete. parents need to be aware of individual differences. it needs to be child-oriented approach.
usually, at age of 2, most children have more intentional control over their sphincters for urination and bowel movement. children at age 2 are seeking for more independence, they know the difference between dryness and wetness of their diaper and they don't like being wet.
other readiness are:
can walk to the potty
they are able to sit steadily
can stay dry in diapers for several hours in a row
they understand and follow one or two simple instructions
they are interested in or curiouse about what parents do on the toilet,
they can let you know(verbal or non-verbal) their needs of pee and poo
has regular and predictable bowel movement
parental readiness:
being ready to spend time and energy on potting training
being patient
not feeling tired or stressed
being able to read their children's cues
expect the unexpected
strategies:
let the child know what you do on the toilet,
let him/her observe you
teach him/her the verbal expression on the urge of pee or poo
play with the potty and get familiar with it
explain what he/she is expected to do on the toilet
cueing children to pee by making "sh..." sound or let the tap water run
some children may cue you by making certain eye contact or facial expression, respect their needs and provide potty ASAP
offer water more often during daytime, and give less drink in the evening
wear diaper over night until the training is completed
priase upon success, encourage and support your child
after repeated success, make this a speial moment by suggesting the use of cotton underwear with favourate cartoon characters
it is OK to call parents for help at night
plastic sheet to help protect the mattress
expect the unexpected:
it it normal that some children may pee or poo in pants after they complete the training
stay calm, reassure your child it is ok
have changes cloths on hand
challenges:
toilet refusal, not ready. you should avoid toiloet battles, give 1-3 months break, allows trust and cooperation
try again, if repeated attempts are unsuccessful, if your child is older than 4 yrs, referral to a paediatrician
regression, if your child has successfully completed potty training, but you have noticed he or she lose control on pee and poo, referral to a family doctor or a paediatrician