When to Start Potty Training

Parents who want to save money better spent than on buying diapers, help children build their self-confidence, be able to use public restrooms, and never feel embarrassed from a garbage pail full of stinky diapers need to potty train their children. But the question is “when is the right time for potty training,”

There is no set of age at which toilet training or potty training should start. The right time depends on the child’s development in four areas: physiological development, motor skills, cognitive and verbal development, and social and emotional awareness.

In physiological development, readiness for potty training is shown when the child has the awareness of his/her need to go (demonstrated by grunting and squatting when he/she feels need to eliminate). In motor skills, the readiness for potty training can be seen when the child is able to undress himself/herself and pull his/her pants and underpants down. In terms of cognitive and verbal development, readiness for potty training can be seen when the child knows the words required for potty training (like pee, toilet, potty or underwear). Readiness is also shown when a child can follow simple instructions. In social and emotional awareness, readiness for potty training can be seen when a child has the desire to master his/her environment and own body that is manifested by “I am a big boy/girl now” or “I can do it.”

So if your children show the following signals, then it is the right time to potty train your child.