There are a variety of approaches that work well for different children, and the key is to match the method to your child’s personality and readiness. The child-led approach encourages following your child’s cues, which can reduce resistance and make the process feel natural. The scheduled approach involves taking your child to the potty at set times, helping establish a reliable routine. The three-day method works well for families who can dedicate a focused period to intensive training. Many parents find success by combining elements of these methods, using structure when needed but allowing flexibility based on their child’s progress and comfort.

Readiness Signs

A child is usually ready to begin potty training when they show both physical and emotional readiness. Common signs include staying dry for longer stretches of time, recognizing the need to go, showing interest in the toilet, and following simple instructions. Your child may also start to dislike wearing a wet or dirty diaper, want to imitate older siblings, or express pride in independence. Starting when your child is showing multiple readiness signs helps ensure a smoother and more successful potty training experience.