Potty Training: Wait for the Signs, Not the Calendar — A Low-Pressure Protocol

The first law of potty training: starting earlier ≠ finishing earlier. Racing ahead of readiness makes training longer and more contentious, not shorter.

Readiness signs (mostly 18–30 months)

Physical: stays dry 2+ hours; bowel movements becoming regular; can walk to the potty and pull pants down. Cognitive: communicates "wee/need to go" (words or gestures); shows interest in the toilet or in adults using it; dislikes the feel of a wet nappy. Wait for most of the list — one or two signs isn't enough.

Two mainstream methods

Gradual: sit and play → sit clothed → scheduled sits (after waking, after meals) → celebrate successes. Takes weeks to months, low pressure — right for most families
Three-day intensive: three days at home, nappies off entirely, frequent prompts and heavy praise. Fast but intense — for children with very mature signs and a parent who can be present throughout

Both work; pick your family's tempo. Night dryness typically follows 6 months to years later — it's a separate physiological process, so don't demand both at once.

Practical details

A small potty, or a seat insert plus a footstool (feet need support to push effectively)
Boys sit first, stand later — simpler mechanics
Potty picture books and toilet-training a teddy make great warm-ups
Praise the behaviour ("you climbed on all by yourself!") rather than the product; zero punishment for misses — clean up calmly

Regressions and constipation

Regressions are common: a new sibling, starting preschool or moving house can all trigger them. Returning to nappies for a few weeks is a strategic retreat, not a failure
Watch for withholding: training pressure is the top cause of toddler constipation. At any sign of holding or painful stools, ease off immediately, add fluids and fibre, and see a doctor if needed — untreated, it becomes a pain → hold → more pain spiral

Nearly every child gets there in the end. Your calm is the most important training tool you own.