Potty training can be an exciting time, but it can often require patience, persistence, and the right gear. For many Australian families, the move from nappies to the toilet is made easier when toddlers and pre-schoolers have the comfort and familiarity of a child-friendly setup.
A toddler potty training seat can make a standard adult toilet a little more toddler-friendly, as children learn to navigate new bathroom habits.
At Bliss Gifts & Homewares, we've pulled together this handy guide to toddler toilet seats, potty training essentials and simple toilet training tips to help parents everywhere.
When Should My Toddler Start Potty Training?
Australian parenting advice indicates that children can develop signs of readiness from anywhere around 2 years, although every little one is unique. Some common signs of potty training readiness include:
- Staying dry for longer periods
- Showing interest in the toilet
- Telling you when they have done a wee or a poo
- Being able to pull their pants up and down
- Following simple instructions
- Becoming more independent with everyday routines
Your child may not display all of these signs before you start, so look out for an overall pattern of readiness.
Should I Go With a Potty or a Toilet Seat?
Both a potty and a child-sized toilet seat are viable options, although each has its advantages. A potty is simple, portable and less intimidating for some children, whereas a toddler toilet seat enables your child to get used to sitting on the family toilet from the get-go.
If your child is going to be sitting on the family toilet, a smaller child-sized toilet seat that sits securely beside or in your existing toilet seat can be useful, as well as a good footstool to help your little one get up and down. The most important consideration is what makes your child most comfortable and confident.
What Should I Look Out for in a Toddler Toilet Seat?
When considering toilet seats for toddlers, it's a good idea to look at practicality before aesthetics.
1. A seat that is designed to suit your toilet (and is installed safely)
2. Comfortable design (children love a comfortable seat!)
3. Easy to clean (accidents are inevitable during potty training)
4. Child-friendly size (a seat that is too large can be scary for a little one transitioning from a potty or nappies)
5. Suitable for your bathroom routine (how and where will the seat be stored? How often will it need to be cleaned? How confident is your child with supervision?)
Simple Potty Training Tips for Parents
Remember that your child will be more confident and comfortable in a routine so it's best not to rush the process.
Follow these simple potty training tips to set your child up for success:
Create a routine: Encourage your child to use the toilet at the same time each day or at a particular point in the day, such as in the morning or after meals.
Watch for cues:Wiggling, becoming silent or avoiding the toilet can all be signs that your child needs to wee or poo.
Simple clothing: Avoid complicated fastenings; go for elastic waistbands that are simple for little ones to pull down.
Praise and encouragement: Acknowledge all successes, both on and off the toilet.
Stay positive after accidents:Accidents are part of the process. Don't shame your child or make them feel embarrassed.
Keep it short:If your child isn't interested in sitting on the toilet, don't force them. Potty training success requires a degree of willingness.
Teach good hygiene: Help your child wipe properly and wash their hands after visiting the toilet.
Make the Bathroom Toddler-Friendly
A simple and welcoming bathroom environment can make all the difference to a stressed little one.
Keep the toilet area clean and tidy. Using a toddler toilet seat in combination with a footstool can also help your child stay comfortable while sitting on the toilet.
You could also encourage children to become familiarised with the bathroom space well before formal potty training begins. Having simple conversations about wees, poos, and the toilet can help make the whole process seem less scary.
Cuteably Potty Training & Toilet Seats
Looking for essential potty training items for your baby or toddler? Explore Cuteably potty training products at Bliss Gifts & Homewaresfor cute and comfortable toddler essentials that are perfect for the move from nappies to the toilet.
When considering any children's bathroom products, always check the product specs, age suitability, size requirements, installation instructions, and care and maintenance requirements before use.
Shop Cuteably Potty Training & Toilet Seats at Bliss Gifts & Homewares.
Potty Training FAQs
What age is best for potty training?
Every child is different and there is no 'set age' for potty training. Many children begin to display signs of readiness from around 2 years.
Is a potty better than a toilet seat?
Neither option is right or wrong, but some children find a potty easier to get to grips with, whereas others can be confident enough to sit on the family toilet from the beginning with the aid of a smaller child-sized toilet seat.
Are toilet seats suitable for babies?
Applicability and suitability will depend on the product and the manufacturer's specific recommendations. Always check the relevant product specs before use.
How long does potty training take?
It can take days, weeks or even months for your toddler to become confident and consistent with toilet training. Every child is different.
Should I force my toddler to use the toilet?
It's best to encourage a positive and relaxed approach to toilet training to avoid putting extra stress on your child.
Final Thoughts
The move from nappies to the toilet can be a daunting milestone for toddlers as well as parents. A good toddler potty training seat, a relaxed routine and plenty of encouragement can make the whole process a lot more pleasant for everyone involved.
Follow your child's lead and always keep in mind that every child develops skills at different stages. With patience and the right Cuteably toilet seat for toddlers, your little one will be well on their way to being a confident and independent toilet user.
Seek advice from your local GP or child and family health nurse if you have any concerns about your child's toileting or overall health and wellbeing.