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Every mother at one time or another faces the inevitable; It’s time to potty train. In order to make this transition a success, there are a few things you can do. Potty training can be a very trying time for you as well as your child. The following are ways that you the parent, your daycare and your child can make this transitions a happy and successful one.
Always keep a positive attitude, remembering that your child will become potty trained. It’s just a matter of time.
Be sure that your child understands that you still love him, even if he makes a few mistakes. Being able to use the potty is a independent accomplishment.
Be sure that your child can manipulate his clothing. This means that your child can take off all clothing in order to be able to get on the potty. Nothing is more frustrating for a child then to want to use the potty and cannot remove his clothing in time. Outer clothing with elastic waist are best. By all means do not put one piece outfits or overalls that have to be unbuttoned or unzipped while potty training. Cotton training pants or pull-ups are also recommended at this time.
Buy a suitable portable potty, Take your child to the store with you to help pick out the potty. Make a big deal about it. If you like you can buy stickers to put on the potty.
Put the potty in a place that your child can get to on his own. I do not recommend putting the potty in the bathroom at first. This may sound strange, but you do not want your child in the bathroom alone for any length of time. A visible place is more suitable.
Buy potty story books, there are many available at a bookstores. Before starting your potty training, read stories and talk about the potty. Show the child where Mommy and Daddy do potty. If you have a older child let them get involved also. Let your child look at the potty story books while on the potty.
It is best if your first step to potty training starts as soon as your child wakes up in the morning or from nap, you will have quicker success at these times.
Potty treats are wonderful. They give your child a incentive to use the potty. You can also use potty treats just to get your child to sit on the potty if they are scared of it. Potty treats can be anything from small bite size pieces of candy, crackers, cookies. If you do not want to use food you can use stickers. Children love stickers even at this early age. No matter how hard it is; do not give your child the treat unless they do something on the potty with the exception of getting a scared child to sit on the potty.
Praise, praise, is the all important secret. Use it often.
Remember your child wants to please you and make you happy.
Make this a happy experience and your and your child will find great rewards.
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