­­­­­­­­Toilet Training at Tiny Tribe-

 

The potty training process is different for all children and families. Some children are potty trained by age two while others are more developmentally ready around age three.

 

1. Even before age two, we begin talking about using the toilet and reading books about potties. Toddlers are interested in observing other children using the potty and may begin to want to try the potty out by themselves.

2. Part of using the toilet involves the ability to dress and undress themselves, climb onto the toilet, and wash their hands in the sink. We practice these skills even if the child shows no interest in actually using the potty.

3. We begin changing them near the toilet while standing. This encourages toilet use and observation. At this time, if you wish, you can provide pull-ups (or underwear with plastic pants) and we will have the child use the potty at every diaper change or more frequently if the child shows interest.

4. Once you feel that you (the parents) are ready to officially complete the training process at home, we recommend a transition to underwear (during awake times) exclusively. We will talk about growing up and using the toilet like the older kids do. Once the child has transitioned to underwear they will definitely have accidents for the first few days. With pee accidents we will have them undress themselves, wipe themselves down, and put on new underwear and clothing. This gives children responsibility for their actions. They will be less likely to ignore the urge to use the toilet if they realize they spend more time undressing and dressing themselves when they’d rather be playing. Of course we make sure they are wiped and cleaned properly and that they wash their hands.

5. We will encourage success by first having the child use the toilet at scheduled times throughout the day. Once the child is regularly using the toilet w/out accidents (this usually takes a few weeks or more) we will give them more freedom to decide when they will use the toilet. Some children will need to continue to wear pull-ups or diapers while napping until they wake up consistently dry.

 

 

 The Beetle class is growing up so fast and they are all showing interest in the potty, as well as doing other things for themselves too. Many of them can put their own shoes and coats on. They are also all learning to set the table, to clean up their messes, and to use their words to express themselves. Toddlers are more capable than many adults give them credit for and most enjoy helping and doing "big kid" tasks. In the name of expedience, often adults do things for children that they can do for themselves. This robs them of their own personal feelings of significance. Though potty training is an accomplishment that each child owns in their own time, our Beetle class is well on their way and we look forward to watching them grow.