10 Signs Your Toddler Is Ready for Potty Training

10 Signs Your Toddler Is Ready for Potty Training

1. Awareness of pee or poo

Your child may hide, shift their weight, or pause play when they feel the urge. That moment of awareness shows they’re starting to connect sensation + action.

2. Staying dry for longer stretches

If your toddler can go 2+ hours without being changed, it means their bladder control is developing.

3. Predictable bowel movements

Does your child typically poo around the same time each day? A regular pattern means you can start prompting visits to the potty effectively.

4. Understanding & following simple directions

If they can respond to commands like “come sit here” or “pull your pants down,” that’s a strong communication milestone for potty training.

5. Using potty-related words or expressing interest

Hearing them say “pee,” “toilet,” or “undies” — or showing curiosity about the potty — means their brain is engaged in the idea.

6. Able to pull pants up and down

Basic dressing skills mean they can access the potty independently. That physical skill supports success.

7. Interest in the toilet or big-kid underwear

Watching you use the toilet, asking to wear “big kid” undies or wanting to imitate older siblings are signs of readiness.

8. Discomfort in a dirty or wet diaper

If your toddler pulls at a wet diaper or shows preference for dryness, that’s a green light for motivation.

9. Independence or “I do it myself!” attitude

Potty training is a big step toward autonomy. If they’re showing desire to do things themselves, you’ve got momentum.

10. Emotional—rather than fearful—about the potty

If your child approaches the potty with curiosity (not fear), you’re in a good place to begin. Feelings of fear or intense resistance signal it might be worth waiting a little longer.

Common Mistakes Parents Make When Starting Too Early

  • Starting based on age alone instead of signs = longer training time.
  • Using reward systems that feel like bribes rather than supporting internal motivation.
  • Road-testing methods every couple of days—consistency is key. 

The bottom line: waiting for readiness doesn’t delay success—it accelerates it.

What To Do Once You See the Signs

Ready? Great. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Start using casual language about the potty: “This is the toilet…” “Big-kid undies…”
  • Let them observe you or an older sibling using the toilet—normalizing the process.
  • Choose the right potty gear (see below) and leave it accessible.
  • Pick a weekend or home-focused period to begin ramping up training—consistency helps.

When you’re ready to move into full-step mode, the Simple Potty Training Plan walks you through each day, every prompt, and every milestone.

Recommended Potty Training Gear

Do these items in your toolkit to support success (and make sure you can buy backups in case your child becomes attached):

  1. Toilet Seat Insert + Step Stool – to start training on the “big toilet” but with added stability and comfort.
  2. Travel/Potable Potty - for when on the road or at places that don't have toilets like the beach or parks
  3. Floor Potty – A small floor potty they can easily reach and use. *Note that some children have a tough time transitioning from a floor potty to the toilet so you may choose to skip this item
  4. Training Underwear & Backup Undies – Easy-pull elastic underpants and multiple backups to prevent stress when accidents happen.
  5. Wet Bag or Small Laundry Bag – To keep spare clothes accessible when you're out and about.
  6. Fun Character Undies or Equivalent – Motivation without pressure.

Final Thoughts: There’s No Race to the Potty

Every child’s potty journey is unique. What matters most is starting when they’re ready—not because of a specific age or schedule.


 With patience, the right signs, and a clear plan, you’ll soon find yourself saying goodbye to diapers and hello to independence. You’ve got this.

When you’re ready for a guided, step-by-step approach, the Simple Potty Training Plan is here to turn that readiness into real results.

 

Legal Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician for specific guidance regarding your child’s development and health.


 As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only link to products that I truly believe in. This means I may earn a small commission when you click on links to Amazon products in this post, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Simple Parenting Plans!

 

Back to blog