The Comprehensive Guide to Potty Training

What is potty training?

Potty training is one of the most challenging developmental milestones for both parents and children, marking the transition from diapers to using the toilet or potty. Every child is unique, and their potty training journey reflects this individuality. Some children adapt quickly and easily, while others may take more time to get comfortable with the process. It’s important to remember that there is no correlation between the ease or age at which a child masters potty training and their future intelligence or achievements. So, parents, take a deep breath and relax. This Comprehensive Guide to Potty Training is designed to provide you with everything you need to know. Keep a positive attitude, stay consistent yet flexible, and understand that your child’s experience will be unique. Forget the rigid timelines and comparisons; embrace the journey that works best for you and your child.

Potty training in developed vs. under developed nations

Potty training generally starts between ages 2 and 3 years in developed nations. The average age of completion is reported to be very close to 3 years of age in most studies completed in the industrialized nations. In under developed nations, as well as the impoverished segments of industrialized nations that do not have access to diapers, and lack toilet facilities and sanitation, potty training usually occurs much earlier by necessity. It starts soon after birth where the mother is in sync with her child and places him or her on the toilet at the very moment the child  indicates the need to urinate or have a bowel movement through her or his expressions or movement. This method called elimination communication or infant potty training in addition to it's prevalence in under developed regions, has gained traction in recent years in the US and other developed nations. Those following this method in the US tend to potty train much earlier than parents using other methods as the core concept is starting while the child is an infant and learning the gestures or expressions the child makes when needing to urinate or have a bowel movement.

Is potty training the same as toilet training?

While the terms "potty training" and "toilet training" are commonly used interchangeably, they technically refer to slightly different processes. Potty training typically involves using a child-sized toilet or potty, which is often portable and smaller than adult toilets. These potties often come in child-friendly colors and themes. On the other hand, toilet training encompasses the broader process of teaching children to use an adult toilet, sometimes with the assistance of a seat reducer or child potty seat. There are advocates for both a potty, or a toilet being used to train children not to rely on diapers. Parents have had equal levels of success with each based upon their child's needs and preferences.

What are the different developmental milestones children must master before potty training?

Potty training poses significant challenges for both parents and children, representing a crucial step towards independence. This milestone demands that children be physically and psychologically prepared to engage in a new and often intimidating activity. In a child's developmental journey, various milestones such as developing motor skills, crawling, standing, walking, talking, teething, and potty training mark significant stages (refer to the Childhood Development Chart below). 

Why is potty training so difficult?

Potty training is renowned for being one of the most formidable developmental milestones for children. It necessitates the mastery of several foundational skills, including motor skills, standing, walking, pulling pants down and back up, and sitting patiently for extended periods. Additionally, children must learn to recognize new bodily sensations such as the need to urinate or have a bowel movement, while also acquiring the ability to control their bladder and bowels. The ability to control the bladder and bowels is developed over time and requires for ample hormone levels to be present in the case of the bladder. Furthermore, becoming accustomed to using the toilet, which can often be perceived as intimidating or frightening, adds another layer of complexity to the process.

When are children able to control their bladder and bowels?

Children can not physically control their bladder and bowels at all under 12 months of age, they have very little control from 12 to 18 months and do not have full control until 24 to 30 months. 

Why do children still wet the bed after they are potty trained?

Children usually learn to control their bladder and bowels first during the daytime. Night time training and control of bowels happens before control of the bladder at night time which generally happens about 10 months after day training.

The reason children have a difficult time staying dry at night called bed wetting or nocturnal enuresis is they have not yet developed enough anti-diuretic hormone (ADH). ADH regulates the flow of water in the body and must be present in ample amounts to suppress urine production in the kidneys and suppress bladder excretion for children to remain dry at night. When the ADP levels are high enough for children to stay dry during the day it takes about 10 months longer for the levels to be high enough to stay dry at night. 

What percent of children still wet the bed at various ages?

• 30% of 4.5 yrs old
• 20% of 7 yrs old
• 10% of 10 yrs old                                                                                            

What is the average age boys and girls are potty trained in the US?

On average children are potty trained at 37.5 months in the US with girls learning before boys at 35 months of age for girls and 39 months for boys.

How long does it take children to complete the potty training process?

The duration of potty training can vary significantly from child to child, but experts estimate that most children require an average of about 6 months to complete the process. Girls typically progress more quickly than boys, often completing training two to three months earlier. However, the timeline for mastering potty training can range from just a few days for quick learners to up to a year for others. 

How long did potty training take to complete according to parents?

According to a UK survey, approximately 21% of parents reported that their children completed potty training in 2 to 3 weeks, making it the most common timeframe for completion reported by parents. However, the survey indicated that 62% of parents were not successful the first time they tried to train their child, so the 2 to 3 weeks was on the second or greater attempt to potty train.

What age should parents start potty training a child-girl or boy?

What signs should parents look for that indicate their child is ready to potty train?

Below is a chart with all of the different readiness signs that experts and researchers have included is studies and research. Since experts includes about a half of a dozen readiness signs in their work, and each study often has different signs, it can be confusing to parents knowing which signs to observe. The chart below is a compilation of all 21 different readiness signs that have appeared in research or pediatrician recommendations in publications. Children that exhibit all of the signs below are good candidates to begin potty training and experience success regardless of their age. (See 21 Readiness Signs for Potty Training below).

How has the potty training age changed in the US throughout history?

The significant events that have shaped the potty training age in the US:

•  In the 1920s and 1930s, children in the US were often potty trained at an incredibly early age, typically between 6 to 8 months. Abusive and coercive practices were often used by parents training at this time. This period marked the earliest recorded age for potty training in US history.
• However, following World War II, in the late 1940's and 1950's there was a shift in the approach to potty training. Medical professionals sought to move away from the coercive and sometimes abusive methods that had been prevalent in earlier generations. As a result, the average age for potty training increased to around 18 months.
• The landscape of potty training changed significantly with the invention of the disposable diaper in 1959. Mass production of disposable diapers by Procter & Gamble in 1969 further influenced the age at which children were potty trained, pushing it to around 24 months.
• The 1970s saw the emergence of the "Diaper Wars" between Procter & Gamble, the makers of Pampers, and Kimberly Clark, the makers of Huggies. This competition led to record profits in the diaper industry, which were invested in research and development, as well as marketing. The introduction of more absorbent diapers, featuring Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP), and enhanced comfort meant that parents could keep their children in diapers for longer periods without discomfort or tears. Substantial marketing efforts aimed at parents normalized later potty training, contributing to a further increase in the average age of potty training. By 2002, the average age had risen to 34.2 months.
• This trend of extending the potty training age has continued into the 21st century. As of 2024, the average potty training age sits at approximately 37.5 months, although some sources report it as high as 42 months.
• See the following table showing the rising potty training age in the US:

Understanding this historical evolution of potty training practices, particularly in relation to the advent of disposable diapers, is essential for parents navigating the potty training process today, explaining the significant delay in potty training age observed in the US.

How does the average potty training age for boys and girls in the US compare to other countries?

In America, children typically begin potty training around 37.5 months of age, with girls starting slightly earlier at 36.5 months and boys a bit later at 39 months, according to most experts. However, some sources suggest that the average age for potty training may be even later, around 42 months or 3 1/2 years. (Source: Short Diaper Facts and Statistics, Average Cost of a Diaper)

Around 50% of countries worldwide have children toilet-trained by the age of 12 months. However, this statistic is influenced the large number of under developed nations where access to disposable diapers, running water and sanitation is limited, necessitating early potty training out of practicality. Conversely, developed nations, including the United States, tend to start potty training at later ages from 24 to 36 months. Nevertheless, there's anecdotal evidence online suggesting that in cultures like some Asian societies, "Elimination Communication" leads to potty training as early as one year of age. However, according to the peer-reviewed research available most developed nations report similar potty training ages as the US.

How does the potty training age affect the environment?

The increase in the average age of potty training in America, largely influenced by both the political climate and the introduction of disposable diapers, has been dramatic. In just four generations, the age at which children are typically potty trained has risen by over two years. For instance, while my grandmother's generation was typically potty trained by the age of one, my son's generation, on average, completes potty training at around 37.5 months.

The increasing potty training age has a substantial effect on the environment as the third largest contributor to landfills is the disposable diaper. It takes more than 500 years for a disposable diaper to break down in a landmine. Some experts insist the time to decompose is much greater than 500 years as the diapers are in effect insulated from exposure to the air and elements which delay's decomposition even longer.

How much damage do diapers inflict upon the environment?

The damage that disposable diapers cause to the environment is summarized in the following table. The annual numbers are staggering in themselves, however, the cumulative effect as diapers continue to accumulate on top of previous years and will do so for the next 500 years, makes it a dire situation that has to be addressed on a worldwide level urgently. (See table below: Environmental Cost of Diapers in the US)

What is being done about the harmful impact of the disposable diapers on the planet?

As the world tackles the broader issue of the depleting ozone and gradual warming of our planet and the consequences for future generations. Efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of disposable diapers include various startup initiatives aimed at developing sustainable alternatives or more eco-friendly disposal methods. Everything from natural biodegradable diapers, biodegradable child potties, turning used diapers into mulch and even paving roads with the product made from used diapers. While there are some promising solutions, few have been able to scale profitably to address global demand.

What is an alternative approach to reduce the impact of disposable diapers upon the planet?

Until there is a commercially feasible solution available, the US could certainly do our part by potty training earlier in life like earlier generations. As previously stated the potty training age in the US increased from under 12 months of age to 37.5 months in just four generations. 

In virtually all areas of life, society has progressed or improved over the previous generation. Whether it has been technology, medicine, agriculture, education or areas of human performance, each generation has built and improved upon the contributions of the previous generation. 

Two areas the US has regressed as a nation

Two areas we have gone backwards in the US has been the potty training age and the health of the planet which are related. Of course the growing potty training age has had a significant impact upon the environment as demonstrated in the table, The Environmental Effects of the Disposable Diaper.

The impact of earlier potty training on the environment in the US?

If the US had continued to potty train children at the same age as in the 1930's, there could be 66% less diaper waste and 66% less depletion of raw materials annually. The first column of data shows the numbers as they currently stand. The second column shows what the data could be reduced to if the potty training age today was the same as it was in the 1920's, a decrease from 3 years to less than a year. The cumulative effect of substantially lower levels of waste and fewer raw materials depleted year in and year out would certainly be a place to start improving the environmental impact of disposable diapers. Until there is a large scale sustainable solution available, an aggressive effort to potty train at the same age as generations before seems to be a logical solution. At the very least the numbers would not be as daunting as they are currently on track to become. Lower numbers of diapers to used and disposed of makes it easier for a future solution to scale on a national level and international level. (Table, Environmental Improvement Annually from Potty Training Same as 4 Generations Prior).

Is it bad to potty train too early?

Of course with earlier potty training there are some very legitimate concerns about problems that occur as a result and some concerns that are unfounded.

Does potty training too early cause psychological damage to children?

Contrary to popular belief, there has never been any peer reviewed research or studies that indicate early potty training or late potty training are correlated to psychological well being.

Is there any indication potty training too early causes problems for children?

There is at least one study that found early potty training was associated with weaker bladders, resulted in urinary tract infections and even kidney damage as well as constipation due to children holding their bowel movements longer than they should. Newer studies suggest no benefit of intensive training before 27 months of age and mastery of the developmental skills required for toilet training occurs after 24 months of age.

Is it bad to potty train children too late?

A number of studies and research indicate that children who are potty trained at the age of two or older are more likely to suffer from urinary tract infections and more likely to experience incontinence compared to children that are toilet trained at a younger age. Late potty training can not only hinder a child's development, but also cause them to be ashamed and suffer from social embarrassment when they realize they are behind their peers in development particularly when they have an accident. 

Is potty training early preferred to potty training late?

Experts tend to agree that parents are better off potty training early than they are training late. There are fewer urological issues associated with early training than late with the only drawback being younger children may take longer to master potty training as they are not as fully developed as older children.

Is there an ideal age to potty train children?

As previously stated readiness signs not age are what parents should look for to determine a child is ready to potty train as all children are different and develop at different ages. However, at least one study found that there is a sweet spot of between 27 and 32 months that most children are ideally ready to potty train. 

Are there any products or supplies that help with potty training?

There are various potty training supplies and products available to aid parents in their efforts. These items are designed to make the potty training process more comfortable, engaging, and successful. Here are some commonly used potty training supplies:

1. Potty Chairs: These small, child-sized chairs are designed to be a comfortable and secure place for toddlers to sit while using the potty. They come in various designs, including those with removable bowls for easy cleaning.
2. Splash Guards: For boys, splash guards can be added to potty chairs or seats to minimize messes and make the process more comfortable.
3. Potty Seats or reducers: Potty seats are designed to fit on top of regular toilet seats, making it easier for children to transition from a potty chair to using the adult toilet. Some potty seats have built-in handles or features to make them more child-friendly.
4. Step Stools: Step stools are useful for helping children reach the toilet or sink independently. They are especially helpful when transitioning to using the adult toilet, as they provide a stable platform for children to step onto.
5. Training Pants: Training pants, or pull-up diapers, are designed to be more like underwear while still offering some absorbency. They allow children to pull them up and down easily, facilitating the transition to underwear.
6. Potty Training Books: Books that focus on potty training can be helpful in introducing the concept to children. They often include colorful illustrations and simple language to make the process more understandable and engaging.
7. Reward Charts: Reward charts provide a visual way to track a child's progress in using the potty. Parents can use stickers or markers to mark successful attempts, and children can see their achievements accumulate over time.Reward Stickers: for use with reward charts or even as stand alone incentives as children tend to be enamored with stickers at the potty training stage.
8. Interactive Stickers or Pee Stickers: such as those by Potty Peepz, are activated by the warmth of urine and these ordinary black, round stickers transform into fun, child-friendly characters that excite and motivate children to use the toilet. 
9. Potty Training Dolls or Toys: Some parents use dolls or toys that come with their own miniature potty to make the process more fun and relatable for children. These toys can be used to demonstrate how to use the potty.
10. Potty Training Watches: Watches may be an added motivation and fun tool to help keep children engaged and excited about potty training.
11. Flushable Wipes:  Although not a necessity, a nice to have product is flushable wipes, such as those by econatty.com which can be gentler on a child's skin than regular toilet paper. It is always advantageous to be able to keep everything as comfortable and pleasant as possible for children during this stressful period of change They can be especially useful during the early stages of potty training when children are learning to wipe themselves.
12. Potty Training Apps: There are various apps available that use interactive games and animations to engage children in the potty training process. These apps can be a fun and educational way to reinforce the concepts of using the toilet.
13. Potty Training Books: There are many helpful books for both parent and child that assist in the process. A very popular book and method is "The Three Day Potty Training Method" by Lori Jensen and for children the Elmo book "P is for Potty" and "Potty" by Leslie Patricelli are popular books to consider.

When choosing potty training supplies, consider your child's preferences and needs. Every child is different, so it may be helpful to experiment with different products to find what works best for your family.

What are the most common potty training methods parents use? 

There are several different potty training methods that are available for parents for potty training. Below are some of the more popular methods:

1. The Azrin and Foxx Method: Developed by psychologists Nathan Azrin and Richard Foxx, this method involves scheduled potty breaks, positive reinforcement, and a structured approach to toilet training.
2. The Brazelton Method: Pediatrician Dr. T. Berry Brazelton introduced a child-centered approach, emphasizing readiness cues, and encouraging a child to take the lead in the training process.
3. The Three-Day Potty Training Method: Popularized by parenting author Lora Jensen, this method focuses on intensive training over a concentrated three-day period, incorporating consistent routines and positive reinforcement. 
4. Elimination Communication (EC): Also known as infant potty training, EC involves recognizing a baby's signals for elimination and responding accordingly, promoting early toilet awareness and communication.
5. The Oh Crap! Potty Training Method: Developed by Jamie Glowacki, this method advocates for a direct transition from diapers to underwear, with an initial focus on naked or bottomless training and progressive independence.
6. The Diaper-Free Baby Method: Authored by Christine Gross-Loh and Ingrid Bauer, this method combines aspects of EC and attachment parenting, emphasizing early communication and a diaper-free lifestyle.
7. The 2-Day Potty Training Method: Created by child psychologist Dr. Jazmine McCoy, this method concentrates on intensive training for a two-day period, involving consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and a child-led approach. 
8. The Naked and Reward Potty Training Method: Coined by parenting author Wendy S. Masi, this method involves a combination of naked training and using a reward system with a $75 toy as a motivator for successful potty training. 
9. Bare Bottom Method:The bare bottom method involves letting a child go without diapers or underwear during a certain phase of potty training.By allowing the child to be bare-bottomed, they quickly feel the sensation of wetness when they have an accident, which can help them associate the need for the potty.This method is often used in the early stages of potty training to promote awareness and help children connect the sensation of needing to go with the act of using the potty.
10. Positive Reinforcement Training: A general approach emphasizing praise, rewards, and encouragement for successful toilet use, with a focus on creating positive associations with the potty.
11. The Child-Oriented Approach: A flexible method based on observing and responding to a child's cues, encouraging independence, and avoiding pressure or coercion in the potty training process. Often associated with this method, is Dr. Benjamin Spock, a pediatrician and author of the influential book "Baby and Child Care," did not develop a specific potty training method. However, his approach to child-rearing, as outlined in his book, generally encouraged a flexible and individualized approach to parenting. Dr. Spock emphasized understanding a child's needs, responding to their cues, and adapting parenting strategies to each child's unique personality and development. 

Many of the above methods share components with one another and do not differ from one another greatly. Parents often find success by choosing a method and adding or dropping components that better fit their child and situation.  No matter which method parents choose, the keys to success are to be positive, patient and flexible throughout the process. 

Which potty training method is the best?

Each of the methods above is a viable option and has gained some traction over the years with parents who have used them successfully.

There has not been a substantial amount of research to support one specific method over the others as the most effective potty training method. There has been one study that indicated that the Nathan Azrin and Richard Fox method is effective for healthy normal children. While there is not agreement of experts as to the best method, there are some general guidelines to follow as best practices.

What are some tips for parents potty training children?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the "best" or most effective potty training method, as each child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. The effectiveness of a potty training method often depends on the child's individual readiness, temperament, and the family's circumstances. It's also important to note that potty training requires a number of different developmental milestones that children must reach before mastering potty training: such as sitting, standing, walking, and fine motor skills to pull pants up and down.There is a tremendous amount of variability in timing for children to reach each of the developmental stages required for potty training success and readiness not age should determine it is time to start training. A combination of positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience tends to be key in many successful potty training approaches. Here are some general tips that can contribute to effective potty training:

• Wait for Readiness: Look for signs of readiness, such as staying dry for longer periods, expressing interest in the toilet, or communicating when they need to go. Trying to potty train too early can be challenging for both the child and the parent.
• Create a Routine: Establish a consistent potty routine, including scheduled breaks and encouraging the child to use the toilet at specific times during the day. Consistency helps children understand expectations and builds a routine around potty time.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child when they successfully use the potty. Positive reinforcement can include verbal praise, stickers, small treats, or a reward chart. Celebrate small victories to motivate and reinforce the desired behavior.
• Model Behavior: Children often learn by example. Allow your child to see you or older siblings using the toilet. This can help demystify the process and make it seem like a normal part of growing up.
• Make it Fun:Incorporate fun elements into the process, such as using colorful or character-themed potty training tools, books, or videos. Creating a positive and enjoyable environment can make the experience more pleasant for the child.
• Be Patient and Understanding: Potty training can be challenging, and setbacks are normal. Be patient and understanding, and avoid expressing frustration or disappointment. Encourage your child and reassure them that accidents happen.
• Transition to Underwear: Gradually transition from diapers to training pants and eventually to regular underwear. This helps children become more aware of their bodily sensations and promotes independence.
• Stay Consistent Across Caregivers: If possible, maintain consistency in the approach to potty training across caregivers. This consistency helps reinforce expectations for the child.

Remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It's essential to be flexible and adjust your approach based on your child's responses and needs. If you encounter significant challenges or concerns, consulting with a pediatrician can provide additional guidance and support.

Are there guidelines that parents or caretakers should be aware of when potty training children with special needs?

As stated throughout this guide, all children are different and develop and mature at different ages and rates. Most of the information has been recommended for healthy children. However, when there are special needs children such as: Downs Syndrome, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Autistic and other special needs children, additional guidelines and considerations are applicable and very specific to each case. Parents should consult a pediatrician in these circumstances for professional individual assessment and recommendations.

What problems or challenges are common for parents to run into during their potty training efforts? 

There are several problems that can occur when potty training and parents and caretakers should be prepared for the following:

1.  Resistance or Refusal: Some children may resist using the potty or express refusal to try it. How to Deal: Be patient and avoid pressuring your child. Offer positive reinforcement, use a reward system, and make the potty training experience fun with books or toys.
2. Accidents: Accidents are common during potty training as children learn to recognize the signals of needing to go. The first day without diapers 1/3 of children have 3 to 4 accidents a day with 12% having up to 7 accidents. Accidents will continue after the first week for 81% of children, so be prepared accidents will happen. How to Deal: Stay calm and avoid scolding. Encourage your child to communicate when they need to go, and provide positive reinforcement for successful attempts. Keep spare clothes handy for quick changes.
3. Inconsistency: Children may be inconsistent in using the potty, sometimes using it successfully and other times having accidents.How to Deal: Establish a routine for potty breaks and be consistent with reminders. Praise your child for successes and provide gentle encouragement after accidents. Patience is key.
4. Fear or Anxiety: Some children may develop fears or anxieties related to using the potty.How to Deal: Identify and address the source of fear, such as the sound of flushing or sitting on the potty. Gradually introduce your child to these elements, use positive reinforcement, and offer comfort and reassurance.
5. Regression: Children who were successfully potty trained may suddenly revert to previous behaviors, such as using diapers. How to Deal: Understand that regression is normal and may be triggered by stress or change. Provide a supportive environment, maintain consistency, and reassure your child. Avoid punishment and focus on positive reinforcement.
6. Medical Issues: Some children may experience medical issues that hinder successful potty training, such as constipation or urinary tract infections. How to Deal: Consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect a medical issue. Follow their guidance for treatment and adjust the potty training approach accordingly.
7. Nighttime Wetting:Description: Nighttime bladder control may take longer to develop than daytime control. Kids normally are night time trained about 10 months after being potty trained during the daytime. How to Deal: Be patient and use pull-up diapers or protective bedding as needed. Limit fluid intake before bedtime and encourage your child to use the potty before sleep. Celebrate dry nights and avoid making a big deal out of occasional accidents.
8. Stool Withholding: Children either consciously or unconsciously refrain from having bowel movements. How to Deal: Encourage but do not pressure your child and in extreme cases contact your pediatrician. See table below to know whats normal for children at different ages and be aware if there is extreme deviation from these normal figures:

Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Adapt your approach based on your child's needs, and always offer support, encouragement, and understanding throughout the potty training process.

What mistakes do parents make when potty training?

Its not only the child that makes mistakes when potty training, parents make the following common mistakes:

1. Making too many trips to the toilet- every 1 1/2 hours is the earliest children should be taken to the toilet to ensure their bladder is full when trying to empty it.
2. Sitting too long on the toilet which can lead to constipation- 5 minutes should be the maximum amount of time sitting.
3. Extreme urging to have a bowel movement- can cause them ton hold it in an be constipated.
4. Wearing Pull ups when training keeps the child from feel their urine or feces and is counter productive.
5. Punishing for accidents is never good as the child will associate negatively with potty training.
6. Asking the child if they need to use the potty instead of looking for signs they need to go.
7. Parents should always be patient, positive and flexible throughout the potty training process.

When potty training children, parents may unintentionally provide incorrect guidance or use ineffective strategies.

Some common misconceptions or incorrect things parents may say during potty training include:

1. "Hold it in until we get to the restroom": This may give the impression that holding urine or stool is the norm, which could lead to constipation or urinary tract issues.
2. "You're a big boy/girl now, so you should know how to use the potty": Pressure or shaming language can create anxiety and stress, making it harder for children to learn.
3. "You're too young to understand": Underestimating a child's ability to learn and adapt to new skills can hinder progress.
4. "You're being lazy": Negative reinforcement or attributing accidents to laziness can lead to feelings of shame and insecurity."You should have told me sooner": Blaming the child for not communicating their needs effectively may discourage them from seeking help in the future.
5. "Just try harder next time": Vague instructions without specific guidance can confuse children about what's expected of them.
6. "You'll never get it right": Using discouraging language can damage a child's self-esteem and motivation to learn.
7. "Only babies wear diapers": Associating diapers with infancy can create unnecessary pressure and anxiety about transitioning out of them.
8. "You're making a mess": Criticizing accidents can create fear or anxiety around using the potty, hindering progress.
9. "You're not ready yet": Assuming readiness based on age rather than individual readiness cues can delay the process unnecessarily.

It's essential for parents to provide encouragement, support, and patience during the potty training process, avoiding negative language and unrealistic expectations. 

Regardless of the specific method or child, the key to success is for parents to remain positive, patient, and flexible at all times and create a supportive and encouraging environment. It's crucial to tailor the approach to the individual needs and temperament of the child and be flexible and willing to adjust the strategy based upon the child's response.

In conclusion, potty training is a dynamic and individualized process that requires patience, understanding, and flexibility. By exploring the historical context, various methods, age-related considerations, potential challenges, and tailored approaches for different needs, parents can approach potty training with confidence. Armed with knowledge and a supportive mindset, the journey towards independent toileting can be a rewarding experience for both parents and children alike.