Potty training guide

Check readiness, follow a simple method, and track wins on a sticker chart that lives on your phone (or print it for the fridge).

Readiness quiz

Stays dry for 2 hours or during naps
Poops at fairly predictable times
Tells you (words or signs) when wet, dirty or about to go
Shows interest in the toilet or copying others
Can pull pants up and down with a little help
Can follow simple two-step instructions
Can walk to the bathroom and sit for a few minutes
Dislikes a wet or dirty diaper

0/8 · Not yetThat’s completely normal. Starting too early usually makes training take longer. Revisit in 1–2 months.

How to potty train, step by step

Set up. A potty chair or toilet seat insert with a footstool, easy-off clothes, and a few potty books.
Practise sitting. Sit on the potty clothed, then bare, at set times: after waking, after meals, before bath.
Go diaper-free at home. Many families start with a few days at home in underwear or bare-bottomed. Offer the potty every 60–90 minutes and watch for the wiggle.
Praise the try, not just the result. Stickers and a happy dance for sitting; a bigger fuss for a success.
Stay neutral about accidents. “Oops, pee goes in the potty. Let's get dry pants.” No shaming.
Head out with a plan. Short trips, potty right before leaving, a travel seat and spare clothes.
Nights come later. Keep pull-ups at night until you see several dry mornings in a row.

Boys often learn sitting first, then standing later. Teach girls to wipe front to back.

Potty sticker chart

Mon–

Tue–

Wed–

Thu–

Fri–

Sat–

Sun–

Saved on this device only.

When to call your pediatrician

Call your pediatrician today

Pain or burning when peeing, or peeing much more often (possible urinary infection)
Hard, painful poops or holding poop (constipation)
Previously dry for 6 months, then suddenly wetting again
Not day-trained by about age 4

General guidance based on AAP, NHS and CDC advice, not a diagnosis. If your gut says something is wrong, call your pediatrician or nurse line. You never need permission to seek care.

Questions parents ask

What age should you start potty training?

Most children show readiness between 18 months and 3 years, and many train between 2 and 3. The AAP emphasises readiness over age; starting before a child is ready usually takes longer.

What are the signs of potty training readiness?

Staying dry for 2 hours, predictable poops, telling you when they’re wet or about to go, interest in the toilet, being able to pull pants up and down, and following simple instructions.

How long does potty training take?

Daytime training commonly takes a few days to a few months. Night dryness is separate and often comes later; many children need nighttime pull-ups until 4–5, and bedwetting before age 5–6 is not considered a problem.

What if my child refuses or regresses?

Take a break of a few weeks without pressure. Regression is common with a new sibling, a move or illness. Constipation is a frequent hidden cause of accidents and refusal; mention it to your pediatrician.