There comes a time when every parent looks at a diaper and thinks: “Enough. It’s time for the potty.” But the transition from diapers to independence isn’t a sprint — it’s a slow and personal process. And no two kids do it the same way. So how do you know when your child is ready for potty training? What’s the best way to approach it without pressure or drama? Here’s a guide from both real-mom experience and child psychology — with practical tips for parents in Armenia and beyond. 🧠 First, Forget the Myths One common method, especially in some cultures, is early potty training (starting at 2–3 months by “holding the baby over the sink”). While this can work for some families, pediatricians and child psychologists agree it’s not developmentally appropriate for most babies. Why? Because real potty training isn’t just about physical control — it’s about: • body awareness • communication • motor skills • emotional readiness So yes — timing matters. ✅ Signs Your Child Is Ready for Potty Training Most children are ready between 18–30 months, but every child is different. Watch for these signs: • Can walk confidently and sit down on their own • Shows interest in what happens in the bathroom • Stays dry for 2+ hours at a time • Tries to pull pants up/down • Communicates (verbally or nonverbally) when peeing or pooping • Doesn’t like the feeling of a wet or dirty diaper 💡 Pro tip: Let your child follow you into the bathroom and explain what’s happening. Modeling is powerful. 🚽 How to Choose the Right Potty Skip the fancy musical toilets and metal pots from your grandma’s era. Look for: • A simple plastic potty with a removable bowl • Stable base (no wobbling) • Easy-to-clean design • A shape that fits your child’s bottom For boys, try placing a fun sticker inside the potty — even thermosensitive ones that change color when peed on. It turns aiming into a game! Check out potty training accessories on Mommytobee.am → 🧩 Step-by-Step: Gentle Potty Training Method 1. Introduce the potty Show your child where it is, what it’s for, and how it’s used. Place it in the bathroom if possible — this builds routine and privacy. “This is your potty. If you ever feel like you need to pee or poop, you can sit here or tell me.” 2. Don’t force, don’t rush Ask gently once or twice a day. If your child says “no,” respect that. Pressuring creates anxiety and resistance. 3. Use training pants Instead of removing diapers cold-turkey, switch to pull-up pants your child can try removing. It builds confidence and keeps accidents low-stress. 4. Watch for interest If they explore the potty, sit on it, or mimic you — that’s progress. If they ignore it completely after several days, put the potty away for 2 weeks and try again later. 5. Praise effort, not just success When your child tries, sits, or even helps clean up — praise them. This builds motivation and pride. “Wow, you tried all by yourself — I’m so proud!” 💡 Extra Tips from Pediatric Psychologists • Don’t punish accidents – they’re part of learning • Avoid bribes like cartoons or snacks – these can create unhealthy associations • Respect privacy – teach your child that potty time is personal • Expect nighttime training to come later – focus on daytime first 🛏️ What About Naps & Nighttime? Once your child uses the potty regularly during the day, you can try skipping the diaper at nap or bedtime. But protect the mattress with waterproof pads just in case — available at Mommytobee.am. Never scold for nighttime accidents. Bladders develop at different speeds — some kids are dry by 3, others by 5 or 6. ❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid • Forcing your child to sit on the potty constantly • Taking away diapers too soon • Reacting emotionally to accidents • Starting just before a big change (e.g., new baby, moving) ✅ Final Word: Trust the Process No healthy adult walks around in diapers. Your child will get there too — with time, patience, and your support. You don’t need to rush, panic, or compete. All you need is a child-friendly potty, a calm voice, and lots of hugs. 🛒 Need gear for potty training? Explore Mommytobee.am’s essentials — including gentle cleaning products, pull-ups, and waterproof pads.