Potty training... it’s generally not something mums think about before they become a parent.  The constant pressure from other parents, family and even daycare is enough to make you put potty training in your "too hard" basket. "Is she potty trained yet", "what age does he have to be using the potty to attend daycare?", "nappies are a thing of the past for us"...

Yes, two - three years is the average age for children to start potty training, but what do you do when it doesn't go smoothly? Or better yet, where do you even start?

Here are a few tips and tricks from us Mums here at über photography that we have tried and used successfully to make this change from the daily nappies to the toilet, seamless... with a tiny side of wee, lol.

1. Try starting to practice using the toilet from around the age of two - if you are able to try a little bit before the age of two this might work out better for your child. 

2. Using the big toilet seat can be VERY daunting for your little one.  Try purchasing a small potty chair or a potty seat that fits over the regular sized toilet. If you are potty training a boy make sure it has a shield in front so they do not make a mess.  Bring the potty chair into the room that your child spends most of their time in on a day or weekend when you have some free time. Let your child run around in just a shirt with their diaper off or if you have guests, try putting a normal pair of undies on them.  Part of the learning of toilet training is that if they urinate it will run down their legs and feel yucky.

3. Clear your schedule before starting to potty train your child. Summer is best! Warm weather means the lack of clothes shouldn't bother your little one.  Also pick a time when you know that you and your family’s routine is less likely to be broken up with vacations, guests, moving to a new house and so on. Long holiday weekends are the BEST time! I know this doesn't sound like the best way to spend your time off however, if you are a working mum or a mum on the go then these are usually when you are able to spend more time focused on helping your little one learn this life long skill.

4. Decide what words you will use to describe body parts, urine and bowel movements. Using negative words such as "naughty" or "gross" can make your child feel self-conscious and ashamed. Talk about urination and bowel movements in a simple, matter-of-fact way.. don't forget to put it in a language your child will understand such as "wee wee" or "poo poo"

5. Use your child’s favorite doll, super hero, or even toy car on a pretend potty. Explain “the baby is going pee in the potty.” Put diapers on their favorite stuffed bear and then eventually graduate the bear to underwear.

6. You can use books and videos to help your child understand the process of using the potty and see other children learning to use the potty. There are lots of free books and videos available online if that is easier.  Let your child look at their favorite book while sitting on the potty to help the minutes pass by.

7. Get out your calendar and declare a “Potty Day”. This is the day that your child would like to start potty training. Use a bright color and circle that date. Keep reminding them that “Potty Day” is almost here.  Get excited with them and create a positive environment and feeling towards this milestone.

8. Once you start, don’t go back.  Keep nappies for nap time and sleep time only (unless you absolutely need your child to wear one).  The more consistent you are, the quicker your child will learn how and when to use the toilet.  If you are worried about the carseat having an accident on it, try putting a towel under them or even a couple of reusable nappy inserts

Usually it takes a little bit of patience and time for a child to understand what they are supposed to be doing and be totally potty trained. Just remember to keep trying and be consistent, your child will eventually understand and be successful.