Potty Progress: Behavioral Strategies for Toilet Training and Bedwetting
by Jennifer Arnold, MS
Q: I'm a little hesitant to begin potty training my child because my friends have told me that it can very challenging and frustrating at times. Is there any advice you can give to make this a little smoother for me and my child?
A: You are right that teaching your child to use the toilet can be trying at times for both the parents and the child. First and foremost, make sure that YOU are ready to begin training your child.
Your ability to be consistent with the training procedures will improve your child's success. Many parents find it easier to set aside a day or weekend to devote to potty related activities. While you may not look forward to spending a day in the bathroom, it can help speed up the teaching process and be fun.
Some parents call it a "potty party" and allow the child to pick out his favorite drinks and treats to use as rewards. You want to make this a positive experience for the child so that he is motivated to learn this new skill.
On the day of training allow your child to drink his favorite beverages more often, so that he has many opportunities to urinate. When you begin training, you will have him sit on the toilet about every 15 minutes for at least five to 10 minutes. Once your child has urinated on the toilet a few times, increase the break time.
During breaks, read books or watch videos about toilet training and talk about the process using words that your child can understand. Each time that your child urinates on the toilet make it a party! Praise your child and deliver a reward such as a preferred food or toy. By delivering a reward immediately, you are teaching your child that it is a great thing that he is now using the toilet.
Once you begin training, you should put your child in underwear instead of diapers. Many parents worry about making the switch to underwear, but it is important that your child learn to recognize when he is wet. When your child is wearing underwear, check hourly to see if he is dry; do not wait until he has an accident! If he is dry, praise your child and tell him how happy you are. The more often that you do this, your child will begin to understand the difference between being wet and dry.
Teaching your child to use the toilet can be a positive experience if you focus on the milestone he is achieving.
SAVE THE DATE
"Potty Progress: Behavioral Strategies for Toilet Training and Bedwetting"
Wed. March 24, 2010 (6:30-8:00pm)
Presenter: Jennifer Arnold, MS
Beaumont Hospital, Grosse Pointe, Connelly Auditorium, 468 Cadieux, Grosse Pointe
No Fee
RSVP by March 17 @ 313.432.3832
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