Helping your child learn
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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