Toilet training is an area of raising small children that too many parents get in a knot about. While there are many steps to take on the way to the amazing world of underpants, there are a few things you must always keep in mind while toilet training.

Before you begin toilet training:

• Don’t expect your child to learn to go to the toilet if he always has a nappy on. He will make the connection between the sensation of weeing and what is physically happening much faster if he can actually see the wee. So, long before you’re even thinking about tackling toilet training, take his nappy off and let him have a run around without it. Either take him out into the garden or be prepared for a few puddles on the floor.
• Toilet training your child in less than a week doesn’t make him – or you – smarter than all the other kids on the block. Don’t follow any toilet-train-your-kid-in-three-days books because you’ll only set yourself up for disappointment. Toilet-training isn’t a competitive sport. Some kids get it in a matter of days, while others take a long time. Pray for the first but be prepared for the second.
• It’s a messy business. Again, don’t expect your child to gain control over these key bodily functions without there being some accidents. Don’t be precious about his clothes or the floors – if you’ve got carpet, try to keep him outdoors or confined to non-carpeted areas.

This article was written by Ella Walsh for Kidspot.