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Making the Big Switch
Transitioning from Diapers to Training Pants
By Katherine Bontrager
So what do children need at this stage to ensure they'll make those final steps to being fully potty trained? "[Give them] encouraging reminders to try and go to the bathroom so it becomes a habit," Dr. Cooper says. "Don't punish children for any accidents, though. Instead, reward and support children for going to the bathroom or at least trying to go."
This is advice Dr. David Fay, a family physician and associate director at the Waukesha Family Practice Residency Program in Waukesha, Wis., agrees with wholeheartedly. "In my experience, using a low-key, positive reinforcement style approach results in the greatest success," he says. "I've had success with a small bowl of individually wrapped toys purchased from a dollar store [and] placed on the toilet. Each successful void or elimination allows the child to open a gift. Children and parents have enjoyed this approach, and it often works fairly rapidly."
It's important to remember that age will have a big impact on how readily a child will adapt to training pants first and then real underwear, though some experts say some of the studies on age and potty training tend to offer mixed conclusions. "Some studies show it's better to start early, some late," Dr. Fay says. "About all the studies agree on is the fact that girls complete toilet training before boys. Despite this lack of useful information, nearly all children achieve their goal. This likely means that whatever means one chooses will result in the desired outcome."
So introducing your child to training pants can be as unique as your toddler is. What will most appeal to him or her? Would he react with excitement to the idea of shopping for training pants? Will a favorite cartoon character catch her interest? Taking your child's unique personality into consideration will help you answer these questions and help you find the potty training routine that will work best for you and your child.