Help with Potty Training

Most children are ready to start potty training, anywhere from the age of two, all the way to shortly after their third birthday. Boys, are generally at the end of this range. One of the many signs of readiness, are letting you know when the diapers are dirty, and need to be changed. However, when they start telling you right before they take a potty, or have a bowel movement it is time to begin the process. Below, I have compiled a list of some helpful tips for potty training.
During your normal book, or reading time. Try reading a book that describes using the potty as a part of growing up. This of course, should be done out loud. Get your child involved, to help make this time fun. One of the best books I have found, is Toilet learning by Alison Mack. It has vivid illustrations of people such as fire fighters, doctors, baby sitters, and parents all going to the potty. This book is sure not only to delight your child, but educate your child as well. It may sound odd, but allowing your child to watch the same sex parent, or older sibling in the bathroom will help reinforce this process of learning.
When purchasing underwear, or pull ups, I would highly suggest getting your child involved. The more they like their new underwear, the less likely they will be to want to mess them. This also acts as further encouragement for your child, as they sport the new undies.
If your child begins to exhibit a fear of the toilet, I would suggest gradually acclimating him or her to the potty. Have them sit on the potty, fully clothed with the lid down for a few minutes every day. Something to help this process, is to read them the potty books during this time. Help them associate the potty with something fun, and routine. Once they begin to understand that the potty doesn't pose a threat, try allowing the child to sit on the potty with the lid up, allowing them to take off their diaper and just perch there like mom and dad do.
Another trick of the trade, is by taking any solid wastes from the diapers and placing them in the potty. This allows the child to realize, that what was in the diaper before now goes in the toilet. I would also allow them to scamper around with their bare bottom, and possibly allow them to go to the potty if they choose to.
Remember, mistakes are going to happen. It is important not to scold your child, instead try to be supportive. Say something like "oopsie, we'll get it next time", and ALWAYS praise your child when they make it to the potty. It is a valuable asset not only to their potty training days, but their self esteem as well. Children want their parents to be happy, and proud of them. Congratulate them with a warm tone in your voice, offer a hug and a possible star on the reward chart.
Lastly, patience is the last but most important to potty training. It is going to take a lot of time to get your little one using the potty like a champ. You may find yourself wavering, and wanting to go back to diapers. But don't, this will breed bad behavior and teach the child that if they do not cooperate, or throw a fit they will get what they want. Take a deep breath, and continue on until you have it well under control.
Show your baby's style by dressing them up in your favorite band's t-shirts and onesies. Whether it's The Ramones, Led Zeppelin or 311, there are punk rock baby clothes as well as baby booties, toddler shirts, organic maternity clothes and diaper bags available. Other kids clothing and gift items include: Toddler skate shoes, slogan baby clothes, rompers, baby bibs, beanies and toddler t-shirts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Freeland