One of the most thought about and worried about topics that arise when you have kids is potty training. When to start, how to do it, and why is it taking so long are all asked throughout homes everywhere.
The best advise is something everyone has probably heard before. Don't start before the child is ready. Staying dry for long periods of time, becoming aware of when they are wet or dirty and showing dislike at the feeling are all very good signs.
There is nothing wrong with letting your child see you in the bathroom if you are comfortable with it. Kids want to be like their parents and it will give them an idea about the whole experience. If you do prefer privacy, there are many good books and videos out there to look at together.
Your child may prefer a small potty chair or a seat that fits directly over the toilet. Either one is fine. Also feel free to let them run naked or in underwear. Play down the accidents that they do make. Not having a diaper on will give them more reason to go to the potty and also more awareness of when they go.
A few tricks, such as aiming for cheerios for boys, running the water, or buying a doll that goes potty are all good if they work for your child. One that worked well for my children was putting red or blue food coloring in the toilet and letting them turn it orange or green. Each child is different. What works for one will not work for another.
It may seem like nothing you try will work but try to remember, each child learns at his or her own pace. There is no right or wrong way or age. The biggest thing to remember is not to push to hard, hang in there, they will get it.
