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You'll learn how to help your child tell you when they need to go to the bathroom.
At this stage, some children begin to notice when they need to pee or poop. It takes time to recognize that sensation. By paying close attention and putting words to what’s happening, you can help your child learn this.
Many children first sense that something is happening in their bodies, but they don’t yet fully understand what it means. They don’t feel the urge until later, or they don’t yet understand the sensation.
That’s why it helps if you point out what you see. Maybe your child is fidgeting, stops playing for a moment, or looks a little different. You’ve learned to recognize these signs before.
By calmly naming these moments, your child will learn to recognize the sensation. This will make it easier for them to say on their own later when they need to pee or poop.
For example, you could say:
“I can tell you’re squirming. Maybe you need to go potty.”
“Your tummy is telling you that a poop is coming.”
“Can you feel a pee coming?”
This way, your child will gradually learn to understand the body better.
Tip 1 – Pay close attention to the signs
Fidgeting, becoming quiet, or stopping play for a moment can mean that your child needs to go to the bathroom.
Tip 2 – Put words to the feeling
By naming what’s happening, your child learns to recognize the feeling.
Tip 3 – Give your child time
Learning to use the potty on their own is a process that takes time. They don’t have to get it right away.
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