When to Start Potty Training
Most children show readiness signs between 18-36 months, with the average starting around 27 months. Starting before a child is ready often leads to longer training times and more frustration for both parent and child.
Potty Training Tips
- Wait until your child shows most readiness signs
- Make it a positive experience with praise and encouragement
- Be patient -- accidents are normal and expected
- Avoid punishment for accidents
- Let your child pick out their own underwear or potty
- Establish a routine (after meals, before bed)
Average Timeline
Once started, daytime training typically takes 3-6 months. Nighttime dryness often comes later, sometimes not until age 5-7. Boys tend to train slightly later than girls on average.