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With term 4 on the horizon in Australia, at Kids on Track, we know that our busiest time is coming with regard to toilet training. One of the first questions parents ask is whether it is better to train their child using the toilet or a potty. Our response depends on the child's personality and what they are struggling with but there are certain guiding principles that can help to inform your decision. Here are the top 5 reasons to go with each method. We hope it helps you figure out what will work best for your child:
THE POTTY
1) You can take it wherever you go and you can bring it to your child whilst they are playing. It will look the same every time and be familiar for them when they are in a different environment.
2) You do not need to adapt the size of the potty for your child's height and weight.
3) There are no " scary " noises that frighten many children when it comes to toilet training.
4) As the potty itself is smaller than the child, they are often less intimidated by it.
5) You can choose a style of potty which suits your child's interests and hobbies. They come in a range of colours and themes which can often make a child more willing to participate.
THE TOILET
1) Some children become very attached to a potty and therefore you can end up having to train them again specifically for the toilet. In effect you are doing the process twice.
2) Most places you go will have a toilet - you don't have to bring one with you. If you forget the potty, you are more likely to have accidents in public.
3) There is no need to transfer the wee / poo to the toilet when your child is finished.
4) There are several steps to toilet training fully eg: wiping, flushing and hand washing and they will learn them all as part of the process.
5) They will look the same as mummy/ daddy and older siblings who they can role model.