FAQ's

Most parents have the same questions so here are some of the most frequently asked ones and their answers to help you along.

## How do I know if my child is ready for potty training?

This has been covered in Chapter 1. There are telltale signs that your child will display if they are ready, such as:

* Taking an interest when you use the toilet.

* Telling you that he needs to pee or poo.

* Disliking dirty diapers etc.

* For a full list refer to chapter one in the guide.

## Should I put water in the potty to simulate that doll or teddy has done a pee-pee?

You can if you want to, but there is no need really. Children have a good imagination when you make things fun.

## Should I use a timer?

You don’t have to but it does make life easier when keeping track, but if you don’t have one don’t worry as long as they are sitting on the potty nearly every 20 minutes.

## Should I let my boy stand up to pee?

Not to begin with as it can get pretty messy. You can move on to letting him stand up when he has mastered using the potty. It may well be a good idea to let the dad of the house show him this part later on.

## Should I use sweets or toys to bribe my child to use the potty?

I would say no, but again it’s entirely up to you. Usually giving lots of praise and attention is more satisfying for your child. Plus it can make it difficult to get your child to co-operate when the sweets or toys are taken away.

After all you can’t give your child a treat every time they use the potty as it can be very expensive. You could take them to the park or get them a toy if they have been consistently dry after a week. This is where the wall chart comes in handy so you and your child can track their progress.

Rewarding is more about rewarding them with attention and love than physical objects, although you could use a variety of rewards.

## Can I train my child using the big toilet?

Yes, if your child is not scared of using it. If this is the route you intend to take then buy a seat that fits on to the toilet seat and have something that they can stand on to reach it safely.

## What if my child wets when he’s outside playing?

To begin with it is very common as children get so engrossed in what they are doing that they ignore their body’s signs that they need to use the potty.

Just keep reminding him that when he’s outside he still needs to go inside to use the potty. Deal with this accident as you would any other by being calm and consistent.