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How can I toilet-teach a child who resists it? All of our friends tell us that their children were toilet-taught by the time they were 2. Our daughter is 2 1/2 , and she is still using diapers. If you have tried everything and you have the same dilemma that we had before, here are some tips to help you.
If you have tried everything, the next step is to try nothing. I am serious. My point is that, in the end, it really does not matter whether your child masters the potty by age 2,3, or 4. I would become a little concerned after that, perhaps.
It sounds as if your concern stems from your own feelings of competition with your friends. This is a losing proposition. You will always be able to find children who did something earlier or better than yours, just as you will always be able to find children who did those same things later or with less proficiency.
There is nothing unusual about a child of a young age wearing diapers. It is not a reflection of their intelligence or predictor of future success. I can’t imagine for example that if your son or daughter became a bank manager, any of their staff would know they were still wearing diapers at the age of 5.
Your toddler will come to use the potty when the are both physically mature/aware of the nerve impulses that signal their need to eliminate, and able to control their sphincter – and emotionally ready to control their bowels and bladder in the way that you want.
Finally, remember that your child has ultimate control – it is up to them to decide when they are ready to give up diapers. If you turn toilet-teaching into a power struggle, they will probably assert their control by doing the opposite of what you want.
That is why you would be wise to back off. Remember that this is a difficult time for your child too. Reassure them that you love them, no matter what. Praise them for trying, not just for success.
