When Is the Right Time to Start Potty Training?
Potty training is a big milestone in a toddler’s life—and in yours, too. It marks the beginning of greater independence for your child and a lot fewer diapers for you! But one of the most common questions parents ask is: “When should I start potty training?”
If you’re unsure, you’re not alone. The truth is, there is no single right answer. Every child is unique, and their readiness for potty training depends on a mix of physical, emotional, and developmental signs—not just age. Let’s explore what to look for and how to make this transition as smooth as possible.
Why Timing Matters
Starting too early or too late can lead to frustration for both you and your child. If your toddler isn’t physically or emotionally ready, potty training can become a power struggle instead of a gentle transition. On the other hand, if your child is ready but you delay, you might miss the window of opportunity when they’re most interested and motivated.
That’s why understanding the signs of readiness is more important than sticking to a specific age.
What’s the Typical Age for Potty Training?
Most children begin to show signs of readiness between 18 to 30 months. Some may be ready as early as 16 months, while others might not be ready until after their third birthday.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that it’s best to start based on developmental milestones rather than age alone.
Potty Training Readiness Checklist
Here are some clear signs your child may be ready to start potty training:
- Stays dry for at least 2 hours at a time during the day or wakes up dry from naps.
- Shows awareness when they’re urinating or having a bowel movement (e.g., pausing, hiding, or telling you).
- Can follow simple instructions like “Let’s go to the potty.”
- Pulls pants up and down with little to no help.
- Shows interest in the toilet or in what you’re doing in the bathroom.
- Dislikes wet or dirty diapers and may ask to be changed.
- Has predictable bowel movements or a somewhat regular schedule.
- Can sit still on a potty for a few minutes without fussing.
- Wants to feel more independent or is eager to please.
If you’re nodding along to several of these signs, it might be the perfect time to begin.
Emotional Readiness: The Secret Ingredient
Sometimes a child may check all the boxes physically but still resist potty training. That’s where emotional readiness comes in. Your child should feel safe, supported, and unpressured. If they are going through a big transition (like starting daycare or welcoming a new sibling), it might be worth waiting a little while.
Potty training should be a positive experience, not a stressful one.
Parent Readiness Is Important Too
Let’s not forget—you’re a key part of this process. Ask yourself:
- Am I ready to be patient and consistent?
- Do I have time to commit to the process?
- Am I calm and encouraging even when accidents happen?
When both you and your child are ready, the process becomes a team effort rather than a battleground.
When to Wait a Little Longer
You might want to hold off if:
- Your child resists sitting on the potty.
- There’s a big life change happening (moving, new baby, etc.).
- Your child seems uninterested, unbothered by dirty diapers, or unable to communicate their needs yet.
Waiting a few weeks—or even a couple of months—can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Potty training isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. It’s okay if your child takes longer or doesn’t follow someone else’s timeline. What matters most is that you approach it with love, empathy, and a sense of humor.
When you tune into your child’s unique signals and readiness, you’ll know—it’s the right time.