Posted On: 11/8/2008Potty training is not an exact science. Selecting an appropriate potty training technique will depend upon your toddler's personality and the amount of time you are able to devote to the potty training method you choose.
Top Five Potty Training Techniques
Infant Potty Training Method How it works: Also called early potty training, the infant potty training method is rarely used in North American countries. However, it is a necessity in underdeveloped countries where disposable diapers are uncommon. Infants are held over a potty when they eliminate. Mothers often learn to adjust to their child's natural rhythms, but infants are also capable of signaling when it's time to go potty.
Pros:
- Potty training is learned early.
- The infant method is eco-friendly and inexpensive.
- Prevents diaper rash.
- Encourages bonding between the parent and child.
Cons:
- The infant method requires a lot of time--virtually impossible for working parents.
- Requires consistent training. Frequent accidents to clean up.
Practice Makes Perfect Method
How it works: This method involves gradually introducing your child to potty training. Steps include modeling potty training, and creating frequent opportunities for your toddler to practice going potty as well as gradually transitioning your child from diapers to cloth underwear.
Pros:
- Works for families with hectic schedules.
- Process is learned gradually, so children are often more comfortable learning.
- Fewer accidents to clean up.
Cons:
- Requires sticking to a routine.
- Can take weeks or months before your child if fully potty trained.
One Day Potty Training Method
How it works: Your child is taught to use the potty, and then potty training behavior is shaped by the consequences of your child's actions. Consequences can be natural, such as the discomfort of feeling wet or dirty, or logical, such as the absence of a reward.
Pros:
- Potty training is completed quickly.
- Many resources are available for parents who choose this method.
Cons:
- It can seem easier than it really is.
- Requires planning, consistency, and structure. Parents must follow through with this method.
Naked Potty Training Method
How it works: Parents spend 3 days to a week on potty training. Your child is allowed to be naked all day and a potty chair is available at all times.
Pros:
- It's quick.
- It's easy.
- It's cheap.
Cons:
- It's messy.
- This method is debated by experts.
Perfect Timing Method
How it works: This method is the most commonly used potty training technique in North America. When using this method, parents treat potty training like any other developmental milestone, such as walking or talking or self-feeding. Parents show children how to use the potty and then let the child decide when the time is right to use the potty.
Pros:
- Good for busy families because the method doesn't require a rigid structure or consistent follow-up.
Cons:
- Children not irritated by wet or dirty diapers will be less motivated to complete potty training.
- May take several months to complete this potty training technique.