What is pre-potty Training?

Wouldn’t it be great if you just brought your toddler to the potty and he or she instinctively knew what to do? It’s not happening. You will need to potty train your child before they know how to use the toilet. This process will be a test of your patience and it may get frustrating. Yet, it’s an inevitable process that every parent will need to go through.

Most people have a rough idea of what potty training is but they mistakenly assume that all one needs to do is show a child how he/she should use a potty and he/she will readily start cooperating. The truth of the matter is that you will need to pre-potty train your toddler.

Basically, it’s like warming up before the grand event. A child that is starting to  be potty trained should be able to hold their urine at least for 15-30 minutes. They’ll also be able to follow 1 to 2 directions of yours at a time. Your child should also be aware when he/she is about to urinate or have a bowel movement.

What do you need to do?

You will need to be on the lookout for the signs mentioned above and once you notice them and finish jumping for joy, you will need to start having practice sessions with your child. Teach them how to pull down their pants and pull them back up on their own. Teach them about the use of the potty chair or potty seat adapter. Let them practice flushing the toilet if they are using the potty adapter seat. Let them read and watch videos about using the potty to get them mentally ready to begin potty training. The video below is a great example of a pre-potty training tool.


You will need to encourage your toddler during pre-potty training and be excited about it. This is a slow process and if you lose your patience, show signs of irritation and anger, your child will pick up on the negative energy and the whole process will be stressful. In some cases, your child may be reluctant and uncooperative, so be patient and reinforce the anticipation of potty independence.

Be Reassured

Exercise patience and be cheerful about it. Rest assured that your child is not going to end up a teenager in diapers. Pre-potty training prepares your child for his new milestone. The potty training period you will be going through will pass by quickly and you may look back on it in amusement one day.

P.S. What is a good way to pre-potty train your child?

P.P.S. Do you have a  video that helps with potty training?

Let us know in the comments section. Thanks

Potty Training Essentials Here

Happy potty training!

By Delois

I am a baby-boomer and experienced mother of four, all adults now. I enjoy sharing parenting tips that may help newbie parents facing challenges with their new "little charges."

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