While it may happen at different times for every child, potty training remains a pivotal experience for young children and their parents!
This right of passage differs slightly from other memorable moments — such as your child’s first words, first steps and their first haircut — as it can be stressful, frustrating and downright difficult for some. But what do you do when you’ve created a solid routine at home, and now are sending your child off to daycare?
The success doesn’t have to stop there. You just have to approach toilet training with a new mindset, and come prepared for your child’s first day at daycare.
Here are five tips for potty training your child when they are at daycare:
- Know The Rules: While every center is different, they all have slightly different rules when it comes to potty training and your child. Be sure to connect with your daycare and ask about the rules, and create a plan to move forward and set your child up for potty training success.
- Be Consistent: Whether you are giving them stickers for a positive potty day or are asking if they have to go at the same time each day, it’s important to be as consistent as possible when potty training your child. Does your daycare allow you to bring your own small potty? Find out, and if it’s allowed, bring the potty your child is used to and most comfortable with for an easier transition.
- Be Prepared: Accidents are bound to happen, so be ready just in case. Send your child with extra clean clothes so, if they have an accident, they won’t get stuck wearing whatever is in the lost and found that day. Experts suggest sending them with soft, loose-fitting pants with an elastic waistband. This will help your child continue being independent and will also help when changes are needed.
- Use Friendly Reminders: Whether your child is experiencing daycare for the first time or is returning after a break, be sure to give them some friendly reminders when it comes to their potty training needs. This could include showing them where the bathroom is or simply reminding them who to talk to when they have to go potty.
- Work As A Team: At the end of the day, most daycare centers require potty training by a certain age. Help your child be successful by communicating with your daycare to let them know about your child’s potty training progress. This could include how they act when they have to use the bathroom, the last time they went to the bathroom before you dropped them off and any other tips you think will help them help your child have a successful day.
For more information about potty training from the experts at Mayfair Christian Daycare & Preschool, please contact us here or call us directly at 616.458.1009.
