How to Potty Train Your Toddler

Witty Kiddies Nurseries — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:46:49 +0000

Potty training is an exciting milestone for both parents and children. Learning to use the potty is a new skill for your little one, and it will happen when they are physically and developmentally ready.

When Should You Start Potty Training?

Did you know that by the age of one, most babies have stopped doing night-time poos? By age two, some children may even have a dry day, although this is still quite early. By age three, around 9 out of 10 children are dry most days, although the odd accident is still very common, especially when they are excited, upset, or completely absorbed in play.

By age four, most children are reliably dry during the day. Night-time dryness usually takes a little longer. Many children achieve this between the ages of three and five, but it’s completely normal for some children to take longer ,in fact, around 1 in 5 still occasionally wet the bed.

So the big question is… when should you start potty training?

Remember, you cannot force your little one to use the potty. If they are not ready, it simply won’t work. However, every child will reach that stage in their own time.

Most parents begin potty training between the ages of two and two-and-a-half, but there is no single “right” time. Some families prefer to start in the summer when lighter clothing makes accidents easier to manage.

It’s helpful to start potty training during a time when there are minimal disruptions or big changes in your child’s routine. Consistency is key.

Signs your child might be ready

There are several signs that your child may be developing bladder control:

They recognise when their nappy is wet or dirty
They tell you when they are doing a wee or poo
They fidget, squat, or go somewhere quiet when they need to go
They may start telling you they need a wee
They can sit down and stand up independently (which helps with getting on and off the potty)

If your little one is showing several of these signs, it might be time to start introducing the potty.

Getting Ready for Potty Training

Before you begin potty training, you can start helping your child understand what is happening during nappy changes.

Talk to them about wees and poos during changes
Change them in the bathroom so they begin to associate it with going to the toilet
Use toys or role play to show how a potty is used
Let them sit on the potty occasionally to get used to it (even if nothing happens)

This early introduction helps the potty feel like a normal and familiar part of daily life.

Starting Potty Training

Once you feel your child is ready, it’s time to begin.

Keep a potty somewhere easy to reach. If your bathroom is upstairs, it can be helpful to have another potty downstairs so your child can get to it quickly.

Encourage your child to sit on the potty at natural times during the day, such as:

After meals
Before bath time
Before leaving the house

A small book or toy can help them sit comfortably for a moment without feeling pressured.

If your child tends to go at regular times, you can try leaving the nappy off and gently suggesting they use the potty during those times.

Accidents will happen and that’s completely normal. Try to stay calm and reassuring. The more relaxed you are, the less anxious your child will feel about trying again.

Some families like to use sticker charts as encouragement. Praise and encouragement can be very motivating, but try to keep rewards simple , stickers rather than sweets are a great option.

It also helps if your child is wearing easy to remove clothing, such as trousers or leggings with elastic waistbands. Avoid tights, zips, or overalls while they are learning.

You may also choose to use potty training pants or pull-ups. These act as a helpful transition between nappies and underwear. They don’t absorb as much as a nappy, which can help your child notice when they are wet.

What About Night-Time?

Focus on daytime potty training first before removing nappies at night.

If you notice that your child’s nappy is dry or only slightly damp in the mornings for several days in a row, they may be ready to try sleeping without one.

There will almost certainly be a few accidents at first, so using a waterproof mattress protector is a good idea.

Encourage your child to use the potty before bedtime and keep it nearby in case they need it during the night.

If night-time training doesn’t go smoothly, that’s okay. Simply return to using nappies at night for a little while longer and try again in a few weeks.

Potty training is a big milestone, but every child learns at their own pace. With patience, encouragement, and plenty of reassurance, your little one will get there.

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