Potty training is an important event in every toddler’s life.  It’s a major transition in your child’s journey to become a “big kid”.  But it is also a very sensitive part of his development, and one that should be surrounded with positive things.

Children who are at the age to begin potty training are also at an age that involves a struggle for independence.  Your toddler still needs you very much, but he also wants to establish his individuality.  So rather than pushing the issue of potty training, it is usually more effective to offer lots of positive reinforcement.  Here are some ways you can do just that:

* Get your child a fun and interesting potty chair.  Put it in the bathroom, and let him explore it on his own before you start trying to potty train.  Allow him to sit on it while you read him stories.  This will help him get comfortable with the chair before moving on to the next step.

* Let your toddler watch you empty his dirty diapers into the potty.  Explain to him that the potty is where poop belongs, and let him flush the toilet if he wants to.  If he asks where it goes when you flush, find a way to explain it that won’t intimidate him.

* Read books about using the potty to your child.  There are many wonderful books available that encourage both knowing when to use the potty and good hygiene.  Give your child the opportunity to ask questions, and answer them honestly.  You can start reading these books before you start potty training, and continue to read them throughout the process.

* Offer praise when your child uses the potty.  Let him know that he is doing what is expected of him, and refrain from comparing him to siblings or other children.  Just don’t go overboard with the praise, because it could make him feel more pressured.

* Remain positive when your child has accidents.  Reassure him that it happens to everyone, and that he will make it to the potty next time.

* Consider developing some type of reward system.  You could purchase a sticker chart designed for kids who are potty training.  Small toys, candy, extra play time, and extra bedtime stories are also good motivators.

* Take your child to the store and let him pick out some underwear that he likes.  Have him try them on when he gets home, and let him know that once he starts using the potty regularly he can wear them.  Once he has made some progress, you could go ahead and start letting him wear them.  He probably won’t want to get them dirty, and will make an extra effort to get to the bathroom when he needs to go.

Getting your child potty trained can be frustrating, but keeping a positive attitude can make the process more pleasant for everyone involved.  Preparing your child for potty training beforehand will make it less intimidating, and providing praise and rewards will give him the motivation he needs to succeed.