Routines and Rituals Continued

Later, when your child is ready to use the toilet, you can make learning easier. Some tips:

• Talk with your caregiver. Parents and caregivers should agree on when a child is ready and what she should be able to do.
• Always supervise your child as she learns to use the toilet. Make sure your child can easily get to the toilet. Put a potty chair in the bathroom or place a sturdy step stool by the toilet. Place toilet paper within easy reach.
• Dress the child in clothing that is easy to take off. These might include a dress, a skirt or pants with an elastic waist.
• Use cloth training pants. Your child will think that disposable paper training pants are the same as diapers.
• Help your child overcome any fear of the toilet. The deep hole and loud flushing noise can seem scary.
• Watch for signs that a child may need to go. This might include a frown or action such as holding her crotch.
• When the child urinates or has a bowel movement in the toilet, say,“That’s good.” Avoid making too much of it. Children need to learn to use the toilet for themselves, not to satisfy you.
• Never scold or shame a child for an accident. These are natural body functions, and children easily forget and get distracted.
• If a child has lots of accidents, go back to diapers for a while. Try again when the child seems ready.
• Go slowly. Learning these skills takes time.

This content has been provided freely by CMC. Click Healthy Start, Grow Smart—Your-Twelve-Month-Old for your free download. Click GreatDad Free Ebook to download the entire Health Start, Grow Smart series.

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