Toilet training your toddler is a major milestone on their path toward independence. But, how do you know when your little one is ready for this adventure? This article explores some key signs.

Motor Skills

These skills are like the foundation of toilet training success but how do you know if your toddler is ready in this department?

Well, your toddler should comfortably sit on a potty or toilet seat and have no trouble standing up from it. He or she should also be showing off some basic fine motor skills, like pulling their pants up and down, trying to wipe (with a little help at first), and getting the hang of washing those little hands with just a bit of guidance.

Physical Readiness

Keep an eagle eye out for these signs they’re physically ready, like increased bladder control. Is your child able to stay dry for more extended periods? Maybe they're even waking up from naps or overnight sleep with a dry nappy. That's a great sign!

How about regular bowel movements? Does your toddler have a predictable schedule? And do they sometimes show signs of discomfort when they need to go? Those cues are essential.

Communication Skills

Let's check your toddler's readiness on this front. Is your toddler's vocabulary expanding to words related to toileting like "pee," "poo," or "toilet"? That's a fantastic step forward!

Understanding bathroom-related language is also important. Your child should be able to grasp and respond to words and phrases associated with toileting. Think "potty," "bathroom," or "flush."

Cognitive Readiness

Keep an eye out for important cognitive signs, such as awareness of bodily sensations. Does your child recognise the feeling of needing to urinate or have a bowel movement and can they communicate this to you?

Further, can your toddler connect the dots between using the potty and the outcome they desire? Maybe they're using words or gestures to let you know they need to use the bathroom.

There’s also the ability to follow simple instructions. Can your child understand and follow simple instructions? If they can comprehend "Sit on the potty" or "Flush the toilet," that's a big win!

Behavioural and Emotional Readiness

Keep a lookout for common behavioural signs, includin an interest in the toilet. Does your child exhibit curiosity about the bathroom? Do they seem fascinated by watching others use the toilet?

Expressing discomfort with nappies is another sign. Perhaps they're trying to take them off or requesting immediate changes after soiling them.

They should also show an ability to communicate needs. Can your child communicate their needs, whether through words, gestures, or a combo of both? This indicates their readiness to use the toilet.

Finally, does your toddler show enthusiasm and cooperation when it comes to sitting on the potty or toilet, even if they don't always produce results? That's a great attitude!

Signs of Readiness for Toilet Training

Unii’s Toddler Health & Development Journey helps you understand when it’s time to toilet train your tot.