In an anonymous survey we conducted to better understand parents’ attitudes on this topic, we concluded that half of the surveyed parents believe their child is still too young for potty training and that autumn and winter are not the best seasons for this process. The sample included 20 parents whose children are around two years old.
For potty training, the child needs to reach a certain level of maturity, which includes control over the bladder and bowels. The optimal period for potty training is between 18 and 24 months, but it is individual and depends on both the parents and the child. In the time when cloth diapers were used, mothers potty trained children much earlier, often removing diapers by the child’s first birthday. A child can begin potty training once they start walking independently, as at this stage they can already control their physiological needs.
Signs that the child is ready to stop using diapers:
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Openly says the diaper bothers them and wants to take it off;
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Takes off the diaper and sits on the potty;
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After a bowel movement, asks you to remove the diaper and clean them;
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Independently asks to sit on the potty.
Eight Montessori Tips for Potty Training
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Change the diaper when it is wet and explain to the child why you are changing it.
In the Montessori model, first develop the child’s awareness that the diaper is wet and that’s why you are changing it, so the child feels comfortable. This is the first step in potty training. Avoid negative phases or words, even during diaper changes and at a very young age. Never say the diaper is disgusting or smelly, as this can cause the child to feel shame or embarrassment about their body. Changing diapers should be a team effort with the child participating in the process. -
If your child stands steadily, start changing diapers in a standing position.
If your child stands steadily, you can change diapers while they are standing. It is good to practice this activity in the bathroom. -
Let the child take off their own pants.
This skill is key, because once the child stands steadily, it’s time to teach them to undress themselves, making it easier and faster to use the toilet. -
Offer the potty by asking: “Do you want to sit on the potty?”
After changing the diaper, offer the potty even if the answer is “no.” Keep offering it. At some point, the child may agree, even if they don’t sit long. This is a good start for them to adopt the idea of sitting on the potty. -
Remind them to sit on the potty by saying: “It’s time for the potty.”
When you feel the child is ready to use the potty, use the phrase “It’s time for the potty.” The child may say “no” because the phase of negativism and potty training often overlap. -
Gradually encourage using the toilet “like mom and dad.”
The Montessori model never involves punishment, only praise and rewards throughout the potty training phase. -
“You are ready for your first underwear.”
When you decide to stop using diapers and put your child in underwear, keep it consistent both at home and outside. Do not return to diapers, as this will confuse the child. At the start of potty training, offer the potty every half hour. -
“It seems your underwear is wet, let’s change it.”
Even after potty training, accidents will happen. Don’t show anger; be gentle and say, “Let’s change your underwear, it’s wet.”