[photo source: netkidswear]



Potty training is more than just teaching a child to go to the toilet. Teaching a child how to use the toilet involves other things, as well. The child has to know:

• if he/she needs to go the bathroom
• how to pull down pants
• how to get on and off the toilet
• how to clean him/herself up after
• flushing the toilet
• washing and drying of hands
• 
  
  With all those in mind, each parent should also know that potty training cannot be rushed if the child is not ready. Here are some cues, courtesy of American Baby, to know if the child is ready to be potty trained or not:
  
  

• Your child stays dry for at least two hours during the day and is dry after naps, which indicates that she's able to remain dry for an extended period of time.
• He's able to follow simple instructions, such as a request to sit down or remove his clothing.
• She shows an interest in wearing underwear.
• He's able to walk to and from the bathroom, sit still on his own for at least a few minutes, and even undress by himself.
• She cries, fusses, or shows other signs of obvious discomfort when her diaper is soiled.
• He has predictable bowel movements on a regular basis.
• She expresses an interest in using the toilet or potty seat.
• He indicates through facial expression, posture, or language that he's ready to use the toilet.

My child is not ready yet. And with my luck, I think that by the time he's ready, I would already be straddling another child on my side.

Is your child ready?