Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş- April 9, 2026
- 2 min read
- Behavior and Mental Health
- — reads
Potty training is one of the developmental stages that families ask about most. The most important principle: focus on the child's readiness, not their age. An early and forceful start prolongs the process and creates resistance. In this guide, you will find the signs of readiness, the steps, and the common mistakes.
Signs of Readiness
These usually appear between 18 and 36 months:
- The diaper staying dry for 2 hours or more, and regular bowel movements
- Being bothered by a wet/soiled diaper and being able to express it
- Understanding simple instructions and a desire to imitate
- Being able to pull pants down and up, showing interest in the potty
Step-by-Step Potty Training
- Introduce the potty: Place it somewhere visible in the bathroom and make sitting on it playful.
- Create a routine: Have the child sit regularly after meals and before sleep.
- Comfortable clothing: Easy-to-remove pants support independence.
- Praise, do not punish: Celebrate every success; respond to accidents calmly.
- Drop diapers gradually: First during the day, then for naps, and lastly at night.
Common Mistakes
- Early/coercive start: Leads to resistance and constipation.
- Punishing/scolding after an accident: Creates fear and withholding behavior.
- Inconsistency: It is important that everyone caring for the child follows the same approach.
When to Consult a Doctor?
A persistent significant problem after age 4, painful/hard stools, ongoing constipation (constipation in babies), or the loss of previously acquired control should be evaluated. For nighttime wetting that continues even though daytime control is established, our article on urinary incontinence in children (enuresis) offers guidance.
Patience is the key to this period. In Şahinbey, Gaziantep, you can benefit from our developmental assessment service to monitor your child's development holistically.
📅 Book an appointment for a developmental assessment
This content is for informational purposes only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. — Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş
Frequently Asked Questions
Most children become ready between 18 and 36 months; on average, 24-30 months is ideal. Rather than age, the child's signs of readiness (staying dry, being able to express needs) are what matter.
Yes. Taking a step backward is common during illness, the birth of a sibling, or stressful periods. Continuing patiently instead of using punishment and pressure is the best approach.
Daytime control usually develops first; nighttime dryness comes later and in some children may not be fully established until age 5. This is mostly related to maturation.
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