Potty Training seems to be one of the most anticipated and also dreaded tasks among mothers of toddlers. On the one hand it is an exciting time because the thought of not having to buy diapers anymore is a great feeling, especially on your pocketbook. However, when it comes down to the actual training and getting your toddler to actually use the potty, this is another story.

There are a few tips to help make the potty training process a bit smoother.

1.Make sure your toddler is ready! The worst thing you can do is push your toddler into potty training when they are not ready. You will be wasting your time with something that may not be meant to be?yet. Wait until your toddler starts to pull or take off their diaper when dirty. Another sign is that they will be curious about the toilet and what it is used for.

2.Buy an inexpensive and basic potty chair with out all the bells and whistles that can cause distraction. Place the potty chain in an area where your toddler frequents the most so it can be visible through out the day. The living room is a good choice. This is just until your toddler gets acquainted with the potty chair.

3.Show your toddler how the potty works. You can get a doll that simulates how to go potty, or bring your toddler into the bathroom with you and show them. They need to see it happening before they can do it themselves.

4.Once your toddler has a concept of what the potty is used for and how to sit down and go, try taking off your toddlers diapers and letting them wear real underwear and encourage them to go.

5.Offer a reward system. After your toddler has gone at least once on their own in the potty chair you will want to keep this momentum going by offering rewards every time they use the potty. Cheering loudly and giving high-fives is also very encouraging. Go to the dollar store and pick up stickers, crayons and other age appropriate treats to give them once they go on their own.

6.Repeat the process and be patient. You will want to continue encouraging and rewarding your toddler until they are completely potty trained. This can take six months or more depending on your little one.

Have patience and before you know it you'll have a fully potty trained toddler and not have to buy diapers for them again!