Potty training is often a task that is taken on by mothers. But as a father, your involvement is as important and brings its own unique benefits. Potty training is not really different from teaching any other skill to your child, like riding a bike. With your support you can help your child to get rid of those costly nappies and take this important step towards independence.
Why Your Role As A Father Matters
1. Building a Strong Bond
Active involvement in potty training is an opportunity to strengthen the father-child bond. Your presence, guidance, and support during this process show your love and commitment. It fosters trust and emotional connection.
2. Creating Lasting Memories
Engaging in potty training creates meaningful memories that will be cherished by both of you and your child in the years to come. It’s an opportunity for quality one-on-one time and a chance to celebrate milestones together. By actively participating, you become an integral part of their growth journey.
3. Modeling Gender-Specific Behavior
As a father, your role in potty training allows you to model behavior for your child. You can demonstrate proper techniques and behavior to your sons or daughters. And help them understand what it means to be a grown-up.
4. Promoting Independence
Your involvement in potty training empowers your child to become independent. Encourage them to take ownership of their potty training journey. You can help to boost their confidence and self-sufficiency.
5. Modeling Balanced Parenting
By sharing potty training responsibilities, you promote a balanced parenting dynamic. Show, through your actions, that childcare tasks are not exclusively the mother’s responsibility. It sets a positive example of gender equality and encourages teamwork.
6. Strengthening Caregiving Skills
Potty training helps you improve your caregiving abilities. You will develop a deeper understanding of your child’s needs. This in turn will improve your ability to respond sensitively. You will grow as a father and feel more confident in your caregiving competence.
The Basics of Potty Training
Children are ready for potty training between 1,5 and 4 years
Children usually get potty trained between 1,5 and 4 years. The average age at which children get potty trained is currently around 3 years. Many children are ready for potty training around 1,5 years.
Readiness signals
Many parents think you need to wait for your child to show interest in the potty or toilet. But this is not necessary! There are many other readiness signals that indicate whether your child is physically and mentally ready for potty training. For example: Is your child able to walk and sit independently? Do they understand certain items belong in certain places (for example a coat belongs on the coat rack)? Is their nappy often dry for one or two hours? If yes, your child may already be ready for potty training! And these are just a few signals, there are many more. Do you want to know if your child is ready? Check out our blog on readiness signals. Or download the Go Potty app.
Daddy is the coach
Getting potty trained is learning a new skill, just like learning to walk or talk. Help your child to get to know their own body and how it works. You are the coach that supports them to take this important step towards independence.
Six Tips for Fathers To Get Started With Potty Training
Tip 1. Be present and available
Show your child you are fully committed to supporting them.
Tip 2. Plan together
Develop a potty training plan with your partner. Discuss strategies and set goals.
Tip 3. Establish a routine
Work with your partner to create a consistent potty training routine that suits you and your child’s needs.
Tip 4. Hands-on teaching
Take an active role in teaching your child how to use the toilet. Explain the process and demonstrate proper techniques. Take advantage of your own struggles as a child with “aiming” or the constant nagging for not putting the lid back down.😊
Tip 5. Make it fun like only daddy can do
Incorporate jokes, games, songs, or special books related to potty training to make potty training enjoyable. For example blow bubbles, build a Duplo structure or read a Find Wally book together while your child sits on the potty.
Tip 6. Offer encouragement
Support your child through setbacks, reminding them it’s all part of the learning process.
Your involvement as a father in potty training holds immense value. Embrace your unique role and watch as your child gains confidence and achieves success. Would you like some more support with potty training? See our special page for father #gopottywithdaddy
