Sphincter control is an integral part of growing up. It usually occurs when a child is between 18 and 24 months of age. Bowel control is usually achieved before bladder control, and daytime control is usually achieved before nighttime control.

A child should never be rushed or pressured into starting toilet training before they are ready to do so. Look for signs that tell you that you are ready:

1. You are aware that you are wet or dirty:This is one of the first promising signs a parent can observe. He will indicate awareness of him by making some specific noises, showing awkward facial expressions, or even gesturing in some. He seems to be unhappy until he gets a new diaper.

2. You have regular bowel movements

Some children, especially those who have been regularly potty-trained at a set time each day, have regular, predictable bowel movements. If your child falls into this category, then he is ready to be potty trained.

3. Knows when to ‘let go’

A child may articulate some unique words, points, or signals, or in some cases, assume a specific posture each time he or she is about to urinate or open the bowel. This helpful sign indicates that your child is ready to be potty trained. At this stage, control is still poor and unless he gets to the potty right away, he may still urinate on his own. In some, although they may have the need to ‘let go’, they may be too absorbed in what they are doing at the moment and end up getting wet.

4. It has increasing periods of dry spells.

A child will be able to stay dry for at least 2 hours during the day when he is more mature. One sign to watch out for is that he stays dry after a nap.

5. Is able to use the potty with good dexterity

When your child is able to drop his pants, sit on the potty, and put his pants back on when he is done, he is showing signs that he is ready to be potty trained.

6. Refuses to wear diapers

Your child may tell you that he prefers the right underwear to the diaper. This is especially evident if she has older brothers to emulate.

Potty training for toddlers should not begin until both the child and the parent are ready. Young children who are allowed to achieve bowel and bladder control at their own pace tend to be potty trained faster. Parents should also be prepared to put in the necessary time and energy before beginning potty training.