Many parents start potty training when their child is about two, but some children may not be ready until later.  Looking for the right signs, such as copying others, and don't feel pressured into training  your child to start before he's ready.

Our checklist might help you decide.

Your child may be ready to start potty training if he or she:

• Wants to 'do it themselves' showing independance

• Has "dry" periods of several hours, this shows that the necessary muscles can hold urine or poo's 

• Has regular, soft, formed bowel movements (poo's) - they might be 'going' at the same time every day.

• Can help dress themselves especially pulling up trousers and pants.

• Likes to watch you go to the bathroom, wants to wear pants like a big girl or boy

• Sits or squats when she's having a bowel movement, or telling you that they have poo'd.

• Understands or says words for stools and urine.

• Understands and follows instructions. 

• Doesnt like the feeling of a dirty nappy.

If you can answer yes to most of these questions then you might be both ready to start.

Potty training will only work when you can give it your full attention, a new baby, or pet will take you away from this special time. Work out when you are going to have a few quiet weeks, especially the first week try to avoid lots of shopping trips, or visits to friends and family. Try to be sure that you have everything ready and that everyone knows you are going to be potty training so not around very much.

Don't consider potty training if you are moving house or going on holiday within a few days of starting, not only will it be stressful for you but for your child. It's not fair on anyone.

Has your child recently recovered from an illness? or perhaps Chicken Pox is doing the rounds at playgroup? Maybe she is due to go to hospital for a routine operation. These are all good reasons NOT to potty train just yet!

If your child has a friend that is also potty training arrange potty play dates, children love to copy each other!