Many parents want to potty train their children, but some may try to begin before their child is ready. This is particularly challenging for children with Down syndrome, as it takes more time and effort to train them.
Table of Contents:
1. Make The Bathroom a Daily Routine
2. Let The Child Observe Others
3. Pay Attention to The Child's Readiness
4. Use Different Ways to Communicate
Starting too early may cause additional problems, such as unwanted behavior and increased frustration for both parents and child. To ensure a positive experience for both, parents need to evaluate their child's toilet readiness. Essential signals of readiness include:
I. Readiness Signals:
1. Child's Age:
It is recommended to wait until after the child's second birthday before considering toilet training. For children with Down syndrome, it is best to wait until after the third birthday to begin the potty training program.
2. Bladder Control:
Your kids should be able to completely empty their bladder when urinating and stay dry for at least 1.5 hours during the day.
3. Predictable Bowel Movements:
The child's bowel movements should follow a regular and predictable pattern.
4. Motor Skills:
The child should be able to walk to and from the bathroom independently and be able to pick up objects.
5. Behavior:
The kid should be able to sit comfortably on the toilet or toilet seat for 2 - 5 minutes. They may be allowed to look at selected books or play with preferred toys while on the toilet.
6. Instructional Readiness:
The child can follow simple instructions, such as the simple command "sit down, please!".
7. Showing Needs:
The kids can show their needs to go to the bathroom through facial expressions, body gestures, body movements, pictures, or words.
Before starting a toilet training program, parents should be prepared to dedicate time and effort to implementing an effective program. If the kids show the necessary signs of readiness, but the parents' schedule does not allow for a consistent bathroom routine every day, some consideration and discussion may be necessary regarding time management.
Once parents are ready, the following tips can be applied to make toilet training an enjoyable experience for the child.
II. Toilet Training Tips:
1. Make The Bathroom a Daily Routine:
Make using the bathroom a part of the child's daily routine and try to create a calm and pleasant experience. Some children may feel more comfortable initially sitting on the toilet with a diaper, pull-up, or underwear, or by sitting on the lid. Providing additional support for children whose feet do not touch the floor can also be helpful.
2. Let The Child Observe Others:
Let the child observe others, such as parents, successfully using the toilet, and praise the child's efforts and successes in sitting on the toilet. It's important not to get upset when there are accidents or a lack of success.
3. Pay Attention to The Child's Readiness:
Watch for signs of the child's readiness for toilet training, such as showing discomfort when he/she is wet or dirty, or "hiding" to defecate, which is a sign of awareness of using the toilet. If the child can hold their urine for a longer period, that can also be a sign of readiness.
4. Use Different Ways to Communicate:
Try different ways of communication with the child to find what works best, such as using pictures or verbal cues.
Many children with non-traditional learning styles or communication modes benefit from using visual aids. Consider incorporating pictures and words to explain the steps of the toilet routine.
It's important to remember that every child is different and will develop skills at their own pace. Some children will require more help and guidance than others, as with many skills. With patience and diligence, you can help your children's training progress.
If you want more information about toilet training, consider consulting with a medical professional or pediatrician. There are so many experts in this field who can provide the best solutions for parents.
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In conclusion, potty training is a challenging task for you, especially when it comes to children with Down syndrome. Starting too early can cause unwanted behavior and frustration for both the child and you. It's important to evaluate the child's toilet readiness before starting the training program, and some signals of readiness include the child's age, bladder control, predictable bowel movements, motor skills, behavior, instructional readiness, and showing needs. Once you are ready, you can start implementing effective toilet training programs by making the bathroom experience calm and pleasant, allowing the child to observe others, and using visual aids. It's important to remember that every child is different and will develop skills at their own pace. Consulting with medical professionals or pediatricians can provide further information and solutions for you.