Potty Training Made Easy

Look for signs of readiness

Not all children are ready at the same time, so watch for cues that your child is prepared to start potty training. Signs include:

• Staying dry for longer periods (at least 2 hours)
• Showing interest in the bathroom or wearing underwear
• Communicating when they’ve soiled their nappy
• Disliking wet or dirty nappies
• Following simple instructions.

If your child isn’t showing these signs yet, don’t rush it! Pushing too soon can make the process harder.

Create a routine

Establishing a consistent potty schedule helps your child get used to the idea. Try sitting them on the potty at key moments, such as:

• After waking up
• Before and after naps
• 20-30 minutes after meals
• Before bedtime.

Make potty time a fun and positive experience. Read books, sing songs, or let them bring a favourite toy while they sit.

Set up a child-friendly potty environment

Choose a potty chair that’s easy for your child to use. Some children prefer a standalone potty, while others like a toilet seat adapter with a step stool. Let them pick one to make them feel involved!

You can also keep the potty in a visible and accessible location—some parents even keep one in the living room or play area at the start.

Use positive reinforcement

Celebrate small wins! Encouragement can help your child feel motivated. Try:

• Verbal praise (“great job sitting on the potty!”)
• Stickers or a reward chart
• Clapping, high-fives, or a special potty dance
• Reassure your child that accidents are okay and a normal part of learning.

Dress for potty success

When your child is learning, easy-to-remove clothing makes the process smoother. Swap out onesies and tight pants for:

• Elastic-waist pants
• Training underwear
• No complicated buttons or zippers!
• Clothes that they can pull up and down by themselves
• Some parents let their child go without a nappy for short periods at home to help them recognise when they need to go.

Expect and handle accidents calmly

• Potty training isn’t a straight path—accidents will happen. When they do:
• Stay calm and reassure your child
• Have extra underwear and clothes ready
• Remind them, “next time, let’s try to use the potty.”

Stay consistent and be patient

Once you start potty training, consistency is key. Avoid switching back and forth between nappies and underwear (except for nighttime). If progress slows down, take a break and try again in a few weeks.

Night-time

Daytime potty training usually happens first. For night-time, try:

• Limiting drinks before bed
• Using waterproof mattress protectors
• Encouraging a potty trip before bedtime.

Some children take longer to stay dry overnight—this is normal! It can take months (or even years) to fully master.

Every child is different, and potty training isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Some children learn in days, while others take weeks or months. The key is to be patient, celebrate progress, and keep it positive.

Remember: accidents are just part of the learning process. With time, encouragement, and consistency, your child will gain confidence and succeed!