This updated article explains two common approaches to potty training: early, brief routines (elimination communication) and waiting for developmental readiness, often in the toddler years. It gives practical tips - short, predictable attempts after feeds or nappy changes, avoiding forced long sits, praising successes, and not punishing accidents. The emphasis is on consistency, watching cues, and avoiding comparisons or pressure.

Start with awareness, not pressure

Potty training approaches vary. Some parents begin infant potty routines (often called elimination communication) soon after bringing a baby home; others wait until the child shows signs of readiness. Both paths can work if you stay calm, consistent, and responsive.

Early routine: short, predictable attempts

If you want to try early pottying, make it a simple, brief routine. After a feed or during a nappy change, hold your baby securely over a small potty for a few seconds. Do this consistently after feeds and nappy removals so the baby learns an association between the routine and elimination.

Many families report that infants will empty when exposed to cooler air after a warm nappy is removed; catching that reaction can reinforce the routine. This practice is commonly known as elimination communication (EC).

Readiness-based training: the common medical guidance

Many pediatricians recommend waiting until a child shows developmental readiness - typically the toddler years - before full-time training begins. Readiness cues include staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the toilet, being able to follow simple instructions, and communicating needs. If you prefer this path, introduce the potty gradually and respect the child's signals. 1

Don't force long sits

Avoid making your child sit on the potty until "something has happened." Forced, prolonged sitting can create stress or resistance. Instead, set a short, consistent time rule for sitting (for example, a minute or two) and gently stick to it. If nothing happens, try again later.

Praise, don't punish

Praise and neutral encouragement when the potty is used. Do not scold or punish for accidents. Toilet learning requires coordination between mind and body and lots of repetitions; mistakes are normal.

Practical tips for any method

  • Be consistent: use the same cues and routine so the child can learn associations.
  • Keep attempts short and predictable: frequent, brief tries work better than long sessions.
  • Watch cues: timing attempts after feeds or nappy changes can increase success.
  • Avoid comparisons: every child learns at their own pace.

When progress stalls

If potty training becomes a source of anxiety for you or the child, pause for a few weeks. Reassess readiness cues and try a gentler, more routine-based approach.

Final note

Whether you start early with brief, routine attempts or wait for readiness in toddlerhood, the core practices are the same: be patient, stay consistent, and respond to your child's signals. Both approaches aim for the same outcome - independent toileting achieved without stress.
  1. Verify current pediatric guidance on typical age range for readiness (commonly cited as ~18-24 months) and source (e.g., AAP or equivalent).
  2. Verify research summaries and consensus statements on elimination communication (EC) and whether evidence is mixed, including any notable studies or reviews to cite.

FAQs about Potty Training

Can you start potty training right after bringing a newborn home?
You can introduce very brief, routine attempts (often called elimination communication) after feeds or nappy changes, but this is different from full-time potty training. These early attempts teach associations and are gradual; many families combine them with later readiness-based training.
What are common readiness signs for potty training?
Common signs include staying dry for longer stretches, showing interest in the toilet, following simple instructions, and communicating needs. These cues suggest the child is developing the physical and cognitive skills needed for successful training.
How long should a potty session be?
Keep sessions short and predictable - often a minute or two for young toddlers. Prolonged sitting until something happens can increase stress and resistance.
What should I do if my child has frequent accidents?
Respond calmly. Accidents are normal. Reinforce routines, watch for cues, and avoid punishment. If anxiety builds for you or the child, pause and try a gentler approach later.
Is elimination communication backed by research?
There is community experience and some research on elimination communication, but findings are mixed and practices vary. Parents should weigh available evidence and choose what fits their family.

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