Page 47 - MAY_2017
P. 47
While not exclusively, the Loveable Lamb there are some children, often the “I do it”,
and the Wise Old Owl have a greater chance independent Courageous Lions. But what if
of NOT SHOWING signs of readiness with you don’t have this child?
toilet training.
Telling you they need to go, being able to
Loveable Lambs are very laid back. While walk, talk, pull their pants up and down
beneficial in other areas, it makes toilet themselves is the finish of the process, not
training quite difficult. They are often the the beginning. In addition to this, if we have
child who doesn’t care if they are wet or used a disposable nappy, this takes the
dirty and are at the last to tell you they need sensation away, making awareness even
to go. They will choose the easy path every more difficult. First teach then aim for
time and when it comes to toilet training, independence. Give them the opportunity
this is the nappy. There is no reason to make to learn this new skill. Don’t have the
the effort to change anything if they are unrealistic expectation they will suddenly
perfectly comfortable with the status quo. know how to do something they have never
done before.
The Wise Old Owls are cautious and don’t like
change. They are quite fearful, particularly WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF READINESS?
in new things. This child will stick to what So what are the key signs of readiness you
they know over attempting anything new. need to look out for with toilet training?
There is absolutely no reason to show you
signs of readiness when they are more 1. Pulling at the nappy or taking it off.
comfortable with the first way they were 2. Dislike of wearing the nappy and/or a
shown; the nappy. battle at nappy changes.
3. Telling you “wees” or “poos” before or
3. BELIEVING “INDEPENDENCE” FACTORS after they go. (This could be verbal or
ARE NECESSARY TO START non-verbal e.g. tapping at the nappy,
Waiting for your child to suddenly tell you crying when wet or dirty.)
one day, “Mum, I need to poo!” can cause 4. Taking an interest in the toilet or potty.
months of delay. Telling you they need 5. Taking an interest in you or siblings going
to go is the finish of the process, not the to the toilet.
beginning. They are learning a brand 6. A dry nappy - displaying an ability to hold on.
new skill that needs to be taught. Yes, 7. A regular poo routine.
If your child is showing signs of readiness,
it means they have an awareness of what
their body is doing. Don’t worry about
how old they are so get going. They may
tell you “poos” when they mean “wees”. It
doesn’t matter. Initially it is just a feeling.
The important thing is they are aware. It
will be easier for you and them if they are
willing and able.
If your child is not showing any signs of
readiness, consider there may be chance
they won’t. To avoid delay, you may want
to step in and help your cautious or laid
back child learn this brand new habit in
ways that will suit them.
may 2017 | mychild 47
