Firstly it's a great idea to let your little one familiarize themselves with the potty. Don't be worried when they prefer to wear the potty on their heads as opposed to sitting on it, most children will play with their potty before realizing what it is for. Let them sit on the potty fully clothed to begin with and explain to them what it is for. Then if your child is regular with their bowel movements, try removing their nappy and sitting them on the potty at these times.

Repetition and routine is one of the best ways for your child to learn, so remember to ask them throughout the day if they would like to use the potty. This way, they might stop to think as opposed to just letting it happen. However, children do not have a long attention span so don't expect them to sit there until something happens. If something does happen--that's fantastic, if not don't stress just try again later--don't under any circumstances make it unpleasant for your little one as they won't want to sit on the potty again if they don't like it!

Another alternative is allow your child to run around without any nappy on. This way they can learn to recognize the sensation of going to the toilet a lot faster. However, be prepared to initially mop up a lot of accidents. Keep the potty near where the child is playing, so that when they need to go, it is right there for them to sit on. Then as they progress slowly move the potty away until eventually they learn to control their bladder or bowels until they reach the bathroom.

Always remember, if they do use the potty, make a huge fuss of rewarding them and tell them how great it is that they've gone to the toilet in the potty instead of their nappy! Never scold your child when they have an accident. Accidents do happen. Scolding them and making them feel bad will probably make them regress more as opposed to trying harder next time!

It is possible to toilet train your baby when they are born and there are many parents out there who have been successful with it, however the most popular time seems to be when your child turns 18 months. No matter what age your child is, persistence and patience are definitely the answer to a successful outcome!
About the Author

As well as being a fulltime Mother, Monique is a partner in Bella Creations, an online gift shop specialising in unique gift arrangements & individual gift products for Men, Women & Babies. To view her gift range, log on at Baby Gifts Australia.