Resistance to potty training or using the toilet is a problem that most parents encounter in their child’s development. Here are some hints and tips to help take the stress out of potty training your child.

1. Make sure the child is ready to start using the potty. It’s always a good idea to start as early as possible, but keep in mind that while some children will be ready at around 18 months, your child may not be ready for another year or so.

2. Make sure you’re up for the challenge. Although this can (and should) be a joyful and memorable moment, most children will, at one point or another, reject the concept and present you with an opportunity, as a parent, to demonstrate your love and patience.

3. Understand that the changes will affect your child. When you take a new job, are expecting another baby, move to a new home, or anything that changes your child’s routine, it can confuse your child and present new problems.

4. Boys are different from girls. Obviously, you could say, but you have to remember that the methods for training boys and girls have some important differences. Probably the most important thing is to make sure girls learn to wipe from front to back early on. Children should learn good manners, such as aiming and keeping the toilet seat down.

5. Accidents happen. Once again, I apologize for the obviousness, but sometimes we forget that all this is new for the child and that sometimes they are forced to break the routine. Be patient and never scold the child. Correct them in a gentle but firm voice and be encouraging and understanding.