The potty-to-toilet transition: 7 essential toilet training tips 

They’ve proudly mastered the potty and they’re beginning to show signs that they might be ready for the next step: the grown-up toilet. And while visions of chasing after a toddler hellbent on going just about anywhere except the potty might be a thing of the past, toilet training is a whole new battle. But it doesn't have to be daunting. Follow these simple toilet training tips for the smooth transition into independence every little one, and – let’s face it – you deserve. 

1. When to toilet train: the signs

Is your child using their potty at the same time each day? Can they remove their clothes by themselves? Are they able to climb steps and walk on their own? These are signs that your child might be physically ready to graduate from potty training and start using the toilet. But being physically ready is only the first part: getting over the emotional hurdle is the real challenge. 
 

2. How to toilet train with a reward toilet training chart

Toilet training can be a daunting experience for toddlers, so support, love and stickers can help to encourage them to take the gigantic leap they need to use a grown-up toilet. That’s where a toilet training chart comes in. Every time they use the toilet, give them a sticker to add to their chart. 

Verbal praise also works wonders: if they have older siblings, get them on board too by encouraging them to shower their younger counterparts with praise whenever they use the toilet. Toilet training shared is, of course, toilet training halved, so you can’t have too many hands on deck! Besides, you already do so much – let someone else have a turn and take a breather. Chill out, have a cuppa! 

3. Follow a routine

Sit your toddler on the toilet at the same time every day when they usually poo or pee – for example, after dinner or before bedtime. Even if they don’t manage to go, this will help them get into the routine of going into the toilet at the right time.

4. Show them how

Knowing how to toilet train is all about leading by example. Teach both girls and boys how to go to the toilet sitting down first. Take them through every step of the process: how to take down pants, sitting on the seat, wiping and flushing. Boys can learn how to pee standing up from a male relative once they’ve mastered how to poo sitting down.

5. Use a step ladder trainer toilet seat

They’re colourful, comfortable and they look fun – toilet training seats can be just what your child needs to start feeling comfortable on the toilet. It’s a great way of boosting a toddler’s confidence and getting them used to the height and the sound of the flush when they go to the toilet.

6. Read toilet-training books

A superhero that is all about poo and toilets? What could be more perfect for a toddler? It’s not called toilet humour for nothing! There are plenty of fun children’s books that make going to the toilet seem less scary and might just give your child the courage they need to make the transition. Some books even come with a toilet-training chart and stickers.

7. Go to great (toilet paper) lengths

Now that your child is proudly manning their throne, they’ll have full rein over the toilet paper. That’s why now’s a good time to teach them how much toilet paper to use, so they don’t decide to unravel the whole roll – fun for them, not so fun for the clean-up crew. Help them decorate an arrow in colourful glitter and place it on the wall next to where the bottom of the toilet roll hangs at 2-3 pieces. That way they’ll know when they’ve got plenty to use – toilet training tips don’t come much better than that! 

When to toilet train ultimately depends on your child; go at their own pace and avoid showing frustration. Use incentives and positive reinforcement whenever you can. When your toddler finally does manage to use the grown-up toilet, they’ll feel just as proud as you do.

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