One of the learnings that most concern families It is the control of sphincters and the use of the potty. Some are paralyzed by the uncertainty about the right time and the steps to follow; others, anxiously, try to speed up the process to ensure that their child has overcome a new stage. It is good to know that, although put down the diaper It is a more complex learning than other behaviors, sooner or later All children eventually master this aspect of their development.
At what age?
Amongst the 15 and 18 monthsMany children already realize that they have evacuated, but they still cannot anticipate the action. That's why it's usually premature to expect them to use the potty consistently. Even so, it is a good time to introduce it, explain what it is for and allow him to become familiar with it without pressure.
Getting too far ahead can interfere with its natural evolution and cause rejection of the potty. However, among the 18 and 24 months Many children begin to express the need to go to the bathroom: they relate certain bodily sensations with the fact that they're going to get dirty. The reaction varies: some cry, others point at their diaper, stay still, turn red, or say it with words.
Another important milestone is that they begin to recognize parts of your body and can name them. They also often use basic words for their excrement (e.g., “poo,” “pee”), confirming that language accompanies control.
Beyond age, the determining factor is the maturing state. Signs such as staying dry for longer periods of time, showing interest in the bathroom or discomfort with the diaper, and being able to pull clothes up and down are reliable indicators that the time is approaching.
Who decides?
It is essential that parents do not decide in a unilateral the beginningThe little one must be the one who, with our guidance, set the pace. Adults can and should accompany and encourage, but never against their will. The key is to observe if recognizes the signs of your bladder and bowel and can anticipate what will happen.
When the child becomes aware that is going to urinate or defecate, and not that he has already done it, the encouragement is effective. Involving him in the process also helps: allowing him choose your potty or underwear, participate in the bath ritual and build a predictable routine after meals, before bed, and upon waking.
Another way to facilitate learning is to modeling: Let him see trusted role models use the bathroom, flush the toilet, and listen to a simple explanation of what's happening. This observation, without pressure, increases your security.
What signs to watch for?
Before you begin potty training or diaper removal, it's a good idea to observe a few behaviors. First, stay dry for at least two hours, which indicates some ability to retain urine.
Second, that differentiate between wet and dryAlthough today's diapers are very absorbent and can "mask" sensations, over time the child discovers the connection between diaper wetness and the fact of having urinated.
Thirdly, that I can pull up and pull down your pants by itself. This autonomy is necessary for sit on the potty when you feel like having a bowel movement.
Fourthly, that he be able to follow simple instructions (for example, “let’s go to the bathroom”, “sit on the potty”, “flush the toilet”, “wash your hands”).
Fifthly, let him warn before defecatingIf you communicate it later, it's probably not ready yet.
Also, pay attention to other common signs: shows discomfort with a dirty diaper and asks for it to be changed; maybe walk to the bathroom and sit down on the potty; understands that the bathroom is the place for “pee” and “poop”; follows predictable routines evacuation; and has curiosity for what adults do in the bathroom.
Arm yourself with patience
Although close to the two years Many children are physically and mentally mature to begin with, this does not mean that From overnight control the entire process. It is necessary patience and perseverance, avoiding rushing and comparisons with other children.
Even if you use the potty regularly, you may sometimes feel unwell. refuse to do so. It is not advisable to force it or keep it there. At this stage asserts his individuality and sometimes uses excrement control as a form of resistance if it perceives too much pressure.
Giving up the “advantage” of doing your business where and when you want can be experienced as an act of love towards parents; if he is forced and does not succeed, he may feel frustrationThe best strategy is reduce adult anxiety and accompany without dramatizing.
It also helps to prepare the process ahead of time: read stories about going to the bathroom, speak in simple language (“pee”, “poop”), dress in clothes easy to remove and anticipate key moments (after meals, before bed, upon waking, and before leaving the house). Positive reinforcement works best if it is calm and proportional; celebrate without exaggeration and value effort without overly labeling it as a “big kid.”
Step by step
Children often acquire before bowel control than the bladder. It is easier to be “clean” than to be “dry” because the interval between the sensation of bowel movement and defecation allows for more advance warning.
towards the two years and a halfMany achieve daytime bladder control and can do without diapers during the day. However, a significant proportion maintains nocturnal urination while sleeping, as their nervous system is not yet prepared for long periods with a full bladder. Nighttime control usually occurs later, so it is advisable to maintain the diaper at night until he wakes up dry for several days in a row.
In the meantime, they are expected "leaks"sporadic, even after periods of apparent control. To avoid frustration, it is better not to give them too much significance; it is enough to take practical measures such as waterproof covers, a mattress pad and a change of clothes accessible.
Practical recommendations step by step (without forcing): sit on the potty for a few minutes after each meal, before sleeping and upon waking; use a toilet adapter If you prefer the toilet, next to a step to support your feet; opt for garments with elastic waist; provide frequent opportunities to go to the bathroom, especially during intense game or exits.
Respectful Montessori approach
A prepared environment facilitates success: having the accessible urinal, wipes or paper towels handy, a stool to reach the toilet and sink, and a basket with spare underwear and pants. Careful observation can detect body signals (dancing, crossing legs, pulling clothes, going to a corner) and accompany without hurry.
The independence inviting them to dress and undress, and to collaborate in the cleaning of an accident with a calm attitude. modeling (see how adults do it) and the positive reinforcement discrete consolidate learning. If resistance arises, the flexibility It is key to take a break and resume when he shows interest again.
As for hygiene habits, teach clean properly (in girls, from front to back) already washing hands each time. In children, many families find it helpful to start urination sitting and, when bowel control is established, practice standing up if desired.
What to do with "accidents"?
When leaving the diaper, the following are frequent: daytime accidents and nocturnal. A common cause is that the child is not yet able to accurately estimate how long he can to hold back urine or feces. This skill is acquired with experience and, to some extent, accidents are part of the learning process.
Another common cause is distraction. When you're very focused on playing, you may ignore the signals. In those cases, it's useful offer to go to the bathroom regularly, especially if clear signs are observed. Avoid embarrassing phrases and opt for a calm tone that normalize the escapes.
Practical tips for managing them: always carry spare clothes, wipes and a bag to store wet items; use mattress protection at night; keep a adequate hydration (it is not advisable to restrict water excessively); and monitor the constipation, which can cause stool retention and increased urine leakage.
If no progress is seen after several days, it may be wise step back and return to the diaper, waiting for more signs of readiness to appear. This is not a failure, but a sign of respect at the child's maturing pace.
Another very common reason is distraction.
If the child is absorbed in an activity, he or she is more likely to let it slip away. To prevent this, it is advisable ask gently and remember to go to the bathroom during times of high concentration. Small periodic “reminders” or associating the bathroom with stable routines (for example, after finishing a game) usually help. Avoid "tricks" such as turning on the tap to provoke the urination reflex: it is better to learn to listen to your body.
Common mistakes when removing the diaper
- Putting too much pressure: Turning it into a “pass or fail” test increases anxiety and hinders learning. Accidents are inevitable and necessary to learn.
- Forcing him to sit on the potty: Holding him against his will or for long periods often generates nervousness, more failures or even blockage and constipation.
- Not preparing the child: the diaper works like security element. Explain the process, practice sitting while clothed, choosing the potty and underwear, and normalize language from the bath reduces resistance.
- Start in times of change: Moving, the arrival of a new sibling or the start of school can cause setbacksIt is preferable to wait until the environment is more stable.
FAQs
How to remove the diaper at night?
It is most advisable that the night training arrives after the daytime. Keep the diaper on at night until he wakes up. dry for several days in a row or let them know you need to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. Help go to the bathroom before bed and use mattress protectorsBedwetting episodes can occur for years without causing a problem if the child's development is otherwise normal.
Can you start at 18 months?
It depends on the maturity of each child. Some show signs from that age, others later. The important thing is do not start without preparation: observe if he keeps the diaper clean between changes, if it bothers him, if he can pull down his clothes and if show curiosity through the bathroom.
When to consult with professionals?
If there is not no interest after a reasonable period of time, if it exists stool retention or pain when defecating, if they appear marked regressions After several attempts or if there are signs of significant discomfort, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or seek specific guidelines for children with autism. Rule out causes medical and asks for individualized guidelines.
Some keys
- It's fundamental respect development of the child, without forcing him to make a change for which he is not yet ready.
- It is important to be aware of the señales which indicate that the child is ready to begin learning.
- It is not due force the child to sit on the potty, nor to hold him there for too long.
- It is not advisable to use Tricks, such as turning on the tap, to trigger the urination reflex.
- Parents must show patience and perseverance, supporting and helping his son at all times.
- should be avoided to quarrel or dramatize when the process is slow, there are small setbacks or “accidents” occur.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Eva Bargalló Chaves, "The third year of life", Born and grow.
The world of your son step by step, Barcelona, Salvat, 2000, Volume XV.
David Shaffer, Developmental Psychology. Childhood and adolescence, Mexico, International Thomson Editores, 2000.
Toilet training comes with observation, routine and respect. When you identify signs of preparation, prepare the environment, reduce pressure and normalize accidents, the process becomes kinder and safer for everyone. The potty is not a competitive goal, but a ability to be autonomous which flourishes best when accompanied with calm, coherence and affection.
