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Toilet Training
The task of toilet training is one that often causes a degree of anxiety among parents and carers of toddlers. It is a complicated skill and the process must be carried out in a very supportive manor.
Facts to remember:
· Before commencing toilet training your child must demonstrate the physical ability to control their bladder and bowel movements. It can be a long process before they are able to develop conscious control and the occasional accident can occur even in young school aged children.
· The readiness both physically and psychologically is not complete until the child reaches the age of 18 – 24 months. This is when the child is aware of the ability to control the body and please the parent.
· Imposing your will and insisting on co-operation before the child is ready will not make the process of toilet training happen any faster.
· As with all millstones sin childhood there is a wide range of “normal”. The average age of commencing toilet training (i.e. the reasonably successful transition from a nappy to regular underwear but not necessarily with complete daytime control) is 2.4 years.
· Bowel training is usually accomplished before bladder training. This is because it is more regular and predictable.
· Nighttime training of urination may not be complete until the ages of 4-5 years – sometimes longer.
· Reducing the child’s fluid intake before bed or waking them at midnight to use the toilet may decrease bed-wetting but it will not teach the child conscious or voluntary control.
Helpful hints:
· Limit practice sessions to 5 – 10 minutes and stay with the child until he or she is confident.
· Don’t forget to train the child in hand washing techniques also
· Praise the child for co-operative behavior and/or if a successful outcome is achieved.
· Avoid showing any signs of disappointment
· Dress children in easily removable clothing.
· It is helpful to tell the child that when they feel the urge to urinate or have their bowels open that they need to allow enough time to get to the toilet.
· Gentle reminders are useful as children become engrossed in their activities and often wait until it is too late to get to the toilet.
· If the child says “no” don’t try to insist or persuade them. The aim is to help them take charge of themselves.
· Take extra pairs of dry pants when going out and be aware of the location of toilets in shops and public places.
· Most importantly – go easy on yourself and your child. Try not to compare them with siblings and friends. Remember they are all individuals.
It may not happen overnight but it will happen!
I you have any further questions regarding toilet training or any other issue you would like to discuss, speak with one of the Pharmacy 777 nurses at either our Applecross or our Whitfords store. The nurses are available Monday to Saturday from 10am – 3 pm
