A few things that can help make the transition from nappies a bit easier:

Potty or potty chair

Quantity is more important than quality as you’ll need at least two potties to make sure there’s always one within easy reach. The transition from nappies will be much easier if they like their new potty so let your child choose their favourite colour or character. Potty chairs are slightly higher and have a wider base, which makes them sturdier.

Trainer toilet seat

Many smaller or younger children are a little bit daunted by the big, cold, noisy toilet and some are afraid of falling down or even getting flushed away. So if you’re planning to miss out the potty and go straight to the full-size option, it helps to get a trainer toilet seat.

Step stool for toilet training

These little plastic stools not only help your child climb onto the loo but also give her somewhere to rest her feet. She can use a step stool to reach the sink to wash her hands afterwards. It saves you from lifting her all the time and makes her feel more grown-up.

Out of nappies and into…

• Pull-ups: If your toddler’s having lots of accidents each day, you might be tempted to use pull-up pants. They’re made from the same material as nappies and are disposable but some children show slower progress in these.
• Trainer pants: washable cotton pants with a waterproof outer layer so they contain small accidents but allow your child to feel when he’s wet. These are a one step further away from nappies.
• Cotton pants: Most experts recommend going straight into proper pants at the onset of potty training as it speeds up your child’s learning process. Make sure you buy plenty of pairs as they’ll be in the wash all the time, especially in the early weeks. Let your child choose some fun smalls so he’ll enjoy wearing them.

Reward Chart

This helps you and your little one focus on the positive aspects of potty training. Simply give your child a star or favourite sticker on his chart when he makes it to the toilet or potty on time. Reward in small chunks – don’t make them wait a week or they’ll lose interest. Draw six spots on a card and give him a small treat every time he fills them with stickers. Stock up on the treats!

A mum’s view:

Lily’s mum Cerys says:
“My little one started having lots of accidents. I spoke to a few other mums and they wondered if it was because she was sometimes in pants and sometimes in pull-ups. I got rid of the pull-ups and the accidents stopped. She is pretty much dry all the time now. The pull-ups were for my convenience but confusing for her.”

A professional’s view:

Pediatrician and Supernanny expert Dr Clay Stallworth says:
“Take the time to find out what motivates your child. For starters, I suggest a reward chart with stickers that enable your toddler to record successful trips to the bathroom. Your rewards don’t have to be edible – for instance, you could offer an extended playtime, new books or small, toys.”