Transitioning from wearing diapers to using the toilet is a significant milestone in childhood. Most children will stop wearing diapers between 18 and 30 months, but this is certainly not the same for all children. Some toddlers completely stop wearing diapers only after the age of four.
A child’s readiness for development plays a significant role in when they will be able to stop using diapers, but the way parents approach the entire situation also has an impact.
Since every child develops at their own pace, the age at which a child stops using diapers can vary significantly. Some studies suggest that if you start teaching a child to use the potty too early or too late, it may hinder the child in mastering this transition. You need to follow your child’s rhythm.
Although studies show that most children are physically and emotionally ready to start toilet training somewhere between 18 and 24 months, age is not the only factor to consider. To know if it’s time to stop using diapers, look for signs of readiness in your child, including:
– The child’s ability to follow simple instructions;
– Shows or does not show interest in using the potty;
– Whether they can sit on the potty;
– Whether the child asks for soiled diapers to be changed;
– Whether they have regular bowel movements;
– Whether they show interest in wearing underwear.
It is important to know that it may not be the child’s fault if they cannot get used to the potty. Sometimes it is simply up to you, because the child’s adaptation to this change also depends on your skills.
When you feel it’s time to make the change, do so by removing diapers from the child’s sight. As long as they are still available, the child knows they have the option to use them. Do not let yourself be influenced by the child’s anger if you don’t give them diapers.
Be persistent because giving in can cause further delays in transitioning from diapers.
If, despite their readiness for development, the toddler still refuses to stop using diapers, it is worth digging deeper to see what is happening.
The child may be afraid of the toilet or the potty. Talk to them about their fears and reassure them that using the toilet is a normal part of growing up. If the problem persists, talk to a pediatrician to see if additional professional intervention is needed to address the root of the child’s fear.
In the end, all you can do is take a deep breath and try to have patience, knowing that the child will eventually adapt to this change as well.
