Potty training for toddlers can be accomplished successfully if it is done with the right amount of dedication and patience. Without a consistent routine and lots of instructions, it is very difficult for the child to master the skill. Parents have to be firm and at the same time understand the child as he or she goes through this stage of life.

Speak to your child about potty training before you start. Get him or her a small potty so that he or she will be familiar with potty. You may also want to use interactive potty training books and videos to introduce toilet training. When he or she is showing strong signs of being ready such as holding his or her crotch area, explain to your child that it is time to do "pee-pee" and "poo-poo" in the potty. You may also wish to promote the benefits of being trained such as staying dry and clean all day, and no more diaper rash.

Potty sticker training charts are a very useful motivational tool when doing potty training for toddlers. These are available in stores but you can custom make it yourself to meet your needs. If your child is a very visual learner, charts can be a wonderful thing. Charts allow the child to see the progress they are making in a straightforward way and let he or she show off his or her new found talent to everyone in the home if it is placed in a prominent place. Set goals for the child to meet. Start putting stickers on the chart once a goal is met, for example sitting on the potty. After a while give stickers when using potty. You may reward your child with a toy if there is no accident for 3 days.

Children of all ages learn faster when conditions remain consistent and positive. Sticking strictly to a routine is very important. If you always remain consistent with your actions, your child will understand what is expected and he or she will potty train much faster and more readily. Examples of routine such as taking your child to his or her potty at a certain time interval and sitting on the potty for two minutes. Try again later if there is no bowel or bladder movement. Set a routine and make sure anyone that is helping you with potty training also knows the steps you have decided on so everyone involved is consistent with the child.

Potty training for toddlers is a very challenging task. Reward your child and always remember that children require patience. Praise them for their efforts even if it is just sitting on the potty. To kids it is a big effort, and words of encouragements take them a long way. Avoid criticism at any cost; this will simply cripple your child's self confidence.