I 1 too soon to start potty training my daughter?

Shannon - posted on 06/11/2010

I haven't heard of anyone potty training that early either... However I would have LOVED if my daughter was ready for that at 12 months. I recently read a article that gave signs of a childs readiness to use the potty. Below is a list of signs... now you dont have to wait until your daughter shows all signs but it will help get an idea of when to begin the training. Also I would keep in mind that starting before your child is truly ready doesn't mean you'll finish sooner — it's more likely that the process will just end up taking longer.



Physical signs:

1. Is coordinated enough to walk, and even run, steadily.

2. Urinates a fair amount at one time.

3. Has regular, well-formed bowel movements at relatively predictable times.

4. Has "dry" periods of at least three or four hours, which shows that his bladder muscles are developed enough to hold urine.



Behavioral signs:

1. Can sit down quietly in one position for two to five minutes.

2. Can pull his pants up and down.

3. Dislikes the feeling of wearing a wet or dirty diaper.

4. Shows interest in others' bathroom habits (wants to watch you go to the bathroom or wear underwear).

5. Gives a physical or verbal sign when he's having a bowel movement such as grunting, squatting, or telling you.

6. Demonstrates a desire for independence.

7. Takes pride in his accomplishments.

8. Isn't resistant to learning to use the toilet.

9. Is in a generally cooperative stage, not a negative or contrary one.



Cognitive signs:

1. Can follow simple instructions, such as "go get the toy."

2. Understands the value of putting things where they belong.

3. Has words for urine and stool.

4. Understands the physical signals that mean he has to go and can tell you before it happens or even hold it until he has time to get to the potty.



I hope this helps some.. I wish you luck!! :)

Tiffany - posted on 06/08/2010

Thanks. I will check it out but I think birth is wayyy too early lol

Mandy - posted on 06/08/2010

I haven't heard of anyone potty training this early personally. You may want to look into Elimination Communication (EC). I'm not sure if there is a group on circle of moms list or not. They believe in potty training babies even shortly after birth. They do it based on timing and signals. Hope this is helpful.