Toilet Training is someting that every child must go through. Some children pick it up straight away and are toilet trained in a matter of days, others and probably the majority of the population, need a little more assistance in forming the habit. Every child is different, with different learning curves and individual personalities.

You need to adapt you techniques and methods to suit your child to achieve the best results. To get the best results with toilet training, introduce the toilet/potty as early as possible, preferably before the age of two so they can start becoming familiar with this new object.

Most importantly, have fun and keep it positive. Understand that accidents are a normal part of this process. Your child is not punishing you or having accidents on purpose. Just like you wouldn't expect your child to stand up and walk for the first time and not stumble, or jump on  a bike and not fall, toilet training is no different to any other new skill your child is learning. And of course, children learn so much better when they are enjoying themselves, so make it fun!

Hints and Techniques

1. Rather than ask the question "Do you want to go to the toilet?" and give children the option to say "No", which then leaves little option other than force, which you do not want, Say "Let's go to the toilet".

2. Always stay positive when communicating....don't shout or get angry. Children respond much better in a happy and positive environment. Even showing disappointment with accidents can affect a sensitive child.

3. If removing the nappy, get your child to say good bye to their nappy and a big hello to their "new big girl/boy" underpants. This gives them a greater understanding of what is happening.

4. Praise every attempt when your child uses a toilet/potty. Get really excited when they actually do a wee or a poo. Show them how proud you are of them. Don't ever get upset or angry if they don't go.

5. Where possible show your child with actions as this helps with their understanding. Example; If there is a solid accident for instance, tell them this belongs in the toilet and go and place it there. Show them and get them to say it as well.

6. Lose the nappy during waking hours. This is the best and quickest way to get the job done. Try and have your child out of nappies as much as possible. This will help get an understanding of the sensation if an accident occurs.

7. Dress yor child in clothing easy to pull up and down. This will make it easier to use the toilet/Potty during the day.

8. Accidents do happen, so be prepared for this. Explain to your child where they are to go to the toilet and get them to explain it back to you and show you several times throughout the day.

9. Take your child shopping to buy their "own special big boy/girl under pants". Get them excited about wearing the same cloths as Mummy and Daddy.

10. Let them watch an older sibling use the toilet, or mum and dad. "Monkey see, monky do" is a very successful training method. A hands on approach is the best way to teach your child "how to go to the toilet" even from the beginning.