Potty Training Readiness Signs

At around the age of 2, children begin learning how to solve problems by picturing a solution and planning a way to accomplish it. Once a child can actively solve problems—like how can I get my favorite doll back from my sibling, or how can I get Mommy to let me stay up later—he/she is cognitively ready to begin toilet training.

How can you really know if your toddler is ready for potty training? Determine if your child has sufficient social responsiveness and understanding by asking her to carry out the following commands in a row:

1. Walk to and from the bathroom
2. Stand up then sit down
3. Point to various body parts; nose, eyes, hair, and mouth
4. Imitate you in simple tasks, such as playing patty-cake
5. Help you put toys away.

For a complete checklist, take our potty training readiness quiz to make sure your daughter is mentally, physically, and cognitively ready to begin toilet training. If you answer yes to all the questions, great! It may be time to give it a go. If not, no worries. Just wait a month or so, then try again.

For more potty training advice, check out:
Potty Training Tips from Teri Crane
Potty Training Products
Potty Training Gear

Talk to other potty training parents who are also in the pee-pee & poo-poo trenches on our Toddlers & Preschoolers Message Board!