Toilet training is not something you want to rush your toddler into, although you don't want to wait too long either! There are some children who won't learn until they are more than 3 years old, when they technically aren't even toddlers anymore. However, there are also some toddlers who start to learn around 18 months. Most will start to learn around the age of 2. Once your toddler starts the process, it will likely take 3 to 6 months before he or she is fully off diapers, so you'll need to be patient.

In determining when to start the process, you should keep in mind that most toddlers' sphincter muslces do not mature until around the age of 18 months, and they need to be mature before you start toilet training. You also need to watch for the following signs of your toddler's readiness:

-shows an interest in the potty

-is able to walk to the potty

-remains balanced while seated on the potty

-can keep a diaper dry for several hours

-has predictable bowel movements

-is able to follow basic instructions

-is able to alert you as to when the potty needs to be used

-likes making your happy

-likes being independent

Before you start the process, you'll want to make sure you have time to spend on it every day. The next step is to dress your toddler in clothes that he or she can pull up and down easily. Next, choose the words you will use to describe processes, waste, and body parts, since you'll be using them a lot. Avoid using negative words so that the toddler doesn't feel any shame.

Encourage your toddler to watch you use the toilet. Encourage your toddler to help a stuffed animal go to the potty. Tell all other people who care for your child how you want him or her trained to maintain consistency. A potty is preferable to a toilet with a seat adapter and stool. Place the potty in a place that is easily accessible for your toddler.  You should always go with  your toddler when he or she goes to the bathroom and cheer him or her on. Be patient and don't get upset when accidents happen, because they are bound to.

Start by having your toddler sit on the potty fully clothed. Then have your toddler sit on it without a diaper. Try to figure out approximately when your toddler needs to go to the bathroom in relation to when he or she eats or drinks, and take your toddler to the potty around that time. You want your child to be relaxed on the potty. Sometimes reading can help.

After your child goes to the potty, you need to show him or her how to wipe (girls should always be front to back). Eventually, they will do this on their own. You also need to wash his or her hands, and make sure they understand that this must be done every time. Once your child has been going potty successfully on his or her own for a week, you can try going without diapers, and make a big deal out of it, like they just graduated from school.

Once your child is dry all day, you will still want to put on a diaper at night until he or she is able to hold it in, or go the potty at night. Once your child is able to hold it in all night, or go to the potty at night, you can say goodbye to diapers.