Potty training is a major milestone for children and their parents. Children can’t wait to be more independent, and parents can’t wait to stop spending so much money on diapers. Most children show signs of being ready for potty training between the ages of 18 months and two years. Of course, some kids may not be ready until they are three years old.

Let’s talk about when is the best time to start potty training your baby.

When should you begin potty training your baby?

1. When they start showing interest. First, it’s important not to start potty training until your child is interested in the process. They may show interest by staying dry, asking what you are doing in the bathroom, or wanting to wear regular underwear. To increase your child’s interest, you can invest in potty training books and videos.
2. When they stay dry for two hours or more. Once your child can stay dry for more than two hours, they may be ready for potty training. Staying dry shows that their bladder is maturing, which is important for the potty training process.
3. When they can follow directions. Finally, another important milestone your baby should reach before you start potty training is the ability to follow directions. For adults, going to the bathroom becomes intuitive after a while, but for a child just starting, there are many steps to consider. It’s not just about the desire to follow a multi-step process, but it is also about being able to do so, and the latter can take time.

Most babies will be interested in potty training around their second year of life, but some babies don’t show any interest in the process until three years old. Once your child starts showing interest in the process, staying dry for long periods, and following multi-step directions, it may be time to start. If your baby isn’t showing any interest in potty training, you can encourage them, but you shouldn’t push them too much because it may set things back instead of moving them forward.