Parents should always remain positive and patient - potty training takes time and setbacks will occur said Jen Singer Potty Training Partner. But remember that children thrive on positive reinforcement. By using praise and rewards, parents can help tots feel more comfortable with new tasks and keep them motivated during potty training.

Never pressure or punish your child for unsuccessful attempts at using the potty. Most of all, be patient! Your child will learn to use the potty when he or she is ready (and not before!).

Just when you think your child has mastered potty training, he or she has a setback. It might seem instinctual to tell your child that they're not a baby anymore, but criticism won't make the potty training process easier for you or your child. Worse, it may negatively affect your child's self esteem.

Following Signs shows that yuor baby is ready for potty training

• Has bowel movements at about the same time every day

• Can stay dry for a few hours or wakes up dry from sleep

• Knows that he/she has to go to the bathroom

• Understands the association between dry pants and using the potty

• Can pull her pants up and down

• Lets you know when he/she has soiled his/her diaper (likes to stay dry)

• Can follow simple directions like, "lets go to the potty"

• Understands potty terms (wet, dry, pee, poop, dirty and potty)

• Can tell you he/she has to go to the bathroom

• Imitates other family members

• Shows interest and asks question while watching you

• Wants to do things "by myself"

• Enjoys washing his/her hands (like to be clean)

• Gets upset if his/her belongings are not in their proper place
  
  

• Wants to please you