Last Updated - November 11, 2025
Make sure your child is ready – Try not to rush the process and start potty training too early. Look for the signs that your child is ready to start potty training before beginning. Signs include that your little one can go about an hour without a wet nappy and can let you know when they’re going to wee before it happens.
Choose a good time – When your little one is learning how to potty train, it’s best to start in a less busy period when you’ve got plenty of time. So, if you’re moving house, you’ve just had another baby or you are about to go on holiday – for example – now might not be the best time to start potty training.
Get your child involved in choosing the potty – If possible, go shopping for a new potty together with your child. This could make him or her feel more included and more excited about using the brand-new potty. Don’t be surprised if your little one just treats it as just another toy at first. You can help your toddler understand its true purpose by roleplaying with a teddy, doll or action figure using the potty.
Place the potty in a convenient spot – The bathroom is the obvious location for potty training kids (and this can certainly help your child associate going to the loo with this room in your home). However, if that room is in a distant part of the house you may also want to think about placing the potty in your child’s bedroom for easy access after naps, or in the playroom.
Get a potty schedule – If you know that your little one usually does a poo around the same time every day, leave the nappy off and ask if they want to use the potty instead. If this doesn’t work out, just put the nappy back on and try again in a few weeks’ time.
Give your baby a book – Read your little one a book about going to the potty while they’re actually on the potty or give your child a favourite picture book to look at. This could help your child pass the time and feel more relaxed.
