Welcome to an exciting new chapter in your little one's life: saying goodbye to diapers and hello to the comfort and independence of using the potty! At TravelTod, we believe every milestone should be a comfortable and positive experience. That's why we've created this guide in collaboration with upchild.sg filled with steps and support to navigate the potty training journey with confidence, all while embracing the cozy feel of our signature bamboo trunks and undies.
Steps into the Potty Training Journey
Potty training is a journey, not a race. Every child is different, and finding the right approach for your toddler is key. Here are some gentle steps to guide you:
Step 1: Recognising Readiness
Knowing when to start is the first step. While ages can vary, look for these signs:
* Physical Readiness: Your toddler is walking confidently and can sit down and stand up easily.
* Communication Skills: They can understand and follow simple instructions.
* Interest: They show interest in the toilet or what you do in the bathroom.
* Dry Periods: They stay dry for longer stretches during the day.
* Discomfort with Dirty Diapers: They may tug at or express dislike for a wet or soiled diaper.
According to Angela from Upchild who we recommend, a potty training specialist and a preferred partner:
"If you’ve been reading dozens of websites or spoken to family and friends and got conflicting advice, you may think your toddler isn’t ready because she’s not showing any, all, or some of the signs. But, if she’s walking confidently & can follow simple instructions then the likelihood is she’s ready! This could be much earlier than the age we normally expect them to be – as early as 16 months."
Think back – did they ever go through a phase of strongly resisting a diaper change? Perhaps that was their way of signaling they were ready for something new! If you're unsure, don't hesitate to reach out to specialists like Angela for personalized guidance.
Step 2: Introducing the Potty
Make the potty a familiar and non-threatening object. Let your toddler explore it, sit on it fully clothed, and even decorate it. Talk about what it's for in a simple and positive way.
Step 3: Timing it Right
Start by encouraging your toddler to sit on the potty at predictable times, such as after waking up, after meals, and before bath time. Don't force it; make it a voluntary activity.
Step 4: The Comfort Factor: Hello Bamboo!
This is where TravelTod makes a real difference. Once your toddler shows consistent interest in using the potty, introduce our super soft bamboo trunks (for boys) and undies (for girls). Made with 95% bamboo and 5% spandex, these aren't just any underwear. The luxurious feel will make your toddler noticeably know the difference between a bulky diaper and their new favorite wear!
* Softness Matters: The gentle bamboo fabric feels wonderful against their skin, making the transition a comfortable one.
* Stylish Independence: Designed in our signature brand colors and featuring friendly characters, our undies are stylish and appealing, encouraging toddlers to want to wear them and take pride in their new "big kid" status.
* Easy for Little Hands: The elastic waistband and thoughtful design make them easy for little hands to pull up and down themselves, fostering independence.
Step 5: Celebrating Successes (and Embracing "Oopsy" Moments)
Accidents are a normal part of the learning process. Avoid scolding or showing frustration. Instead, focus on celebrating even small successes. And for those inevitable "oopsy" times, our bamboo undies are easy to wash, getting them ready for the next adventure quickly. A set of three ensures you always have a fresh pair on hand.
Step 6: Consistency is Key
Try to establish a routine and be consistent in your approach. This will help your toddler understand what is expected of them.
Expert Advice from Upchild: A Preferred Partner in Potty Training
If you need potty training support, we work closely and recommend Upchild. Angela, the founder mom shares valuable insights that align with our gentle and empowering approach to toddlerhood. You can join her community of "Go Diaper Free Singapore" or explore her services here.
We've asked Angela a couple of questions we often get from moms start thinking of potty training and the transition when looking at buying our toddlerhood undies and trunks.
How do I know if my toddler is ready?
"If you’ve been reading dozens of websites or spoken to family and friends and got conflicting advice, you may think your toddler isn’t ready because she’s not showing any, all, or some of the signs. But, if she’s walking confidently & can follow simple instructions then the likelihood is she’s ready! This could be much earlier than the age we normally expect them to be – as early as 16 months..."
Will it be too hard to potty train before they are >2 years?
"..it takes the same time whether you start at 18, 24 or 36 months – the time it takes is related to your toddlers temperament, not his age. If you potty train at 18 months or earlier, your toddler will need more assistance from you for a little longer, but they will be independent much sooner." .. Be brave mommas!
What are the issues if we just wait and let them 'self-train'?
"There are two common issues with letting children do it themselves. The first is that the age range at which they usually do it varies from 3.5 – 5 years and the risk of UTIs, constipation & wetting greatly increases as children get older. The second is the risk of feeling shame..Besides, we decided to put them in diapers so I firmly believe we should help them out of diapers.", says Angela.
The Exciting Journey of Toddlerhood: Hello Undies & Trunks, Hello Independence!
Toddlerhood is a whirlwind of adventures, new discoveries, and learning to navigate the world. Potty training is a significant milestone in this journey, a step towards greater independence and self-awareness. Walk this path with your child, celebrate every little victory, and remember that there's no "right" time dictated by anyone but you and your toddler.
Don't be afraid to embark on this adventure. You decide when the time is right, and often, it's earlier than you might think. Your toddler will thrive on the feeling of accomplishment and the newfound freedom that comes with being diaper-free.
Imagine the joy of your little one proudly saying, "I did it!" as they use the potty. Envision them running and playing comfortably in their soft bamboo undies, feeling just like mom and dad. Say goodbye to those bulky diapers and hello to a new era of comfort, confidence, and independence.
Hello bamboo, hello feeling free!