There are wide ranging opinions on the subject of potty training, specifically when to begin. However, parents should not feel constricted by books or outside advice. There is no definitive answer to the question “when do I begin potty training?”. Therefore, parents must understand that potty training should be approached as an individual issue. Subsequently, moms and dads should feel free to commence training at whatever age they feel comfortable with.

The average age for potty training girls and boys is between 18 months and 2 years. However, the muscles that manage bowel and bladder movements begin to develop and mature as early as 1 year old. By 18 months, these muscles should be fully mature and your child should be able to control their bladder and bowel for short periods. For example, your toddler is able to remain dry through a nap or for up to two hours during the day.

At around the age of 18 months, children also begin to make a connection between feelings of fullness and the need to evacuate. Indicators that your child is aware of this association are squatting when defecating and pointing at the diaper when they have filled it.

It is important for parents to remember that it is not necessarily the age of their child that is central to choosing when to begin potty training. The fundamental factor should be your child’s own personal development. If you think that he, or she, is ready then follow your instincts. However, it is beneficial to plan the potty training first, because if a need arises to place your child back in diapers this could cause set-backs.

On the other hand, parents should not be put off potty training, because they believe that it will take several days or even weeks. Potty training girls and boys can be extremely quick if carried out effectively. In fact, it is possible to potty train your child in under 3 days.