
Every kid hits each childhood milestone and rite of passage at his or her own pace. Potty-training age is no different. But many parents want to know the age range that's most ideal to make the process more flawless — and maybe even a little quicker. Here are a few opinions on the best potty-training age, from a pediatrician and from moms who've done it.
Average Age Is 3 to 4
"Generally speaking, kids [become fully potty trained] somewhere between 3 and 4, on average. I know that may seem late. There are some people who say they have potty trained their kids at 2. That does happen but it's more rare. Girls tend to potty train sooner than boys, and boys can take up to age 4½. There are a lot of 4-year-olds still having accidents.
"What's most important is that you look for the classic signs of readiness. When a child is starting to go into a corner to poop privately, when they're aware of what's happening, they can be an active helper in the potty-training department.
"Some kids will verbally say, 'Change me, I'm wet.' That’s a good sign, or if they're removing the diaper because it's uncomfortable. It can be tricky now that diapers are so absorbent. When they're able to talk about it a little bit and show interest in what Mom and Dad are doing when they go to the bathroom, that's a good sign of readiness." — Christina Johns, MD, MEd, FAAP, senior medical adviser, PM Pediatrics, Lake Success, NY
Every Kid Has a Unique Pace
"I believe there is no set age; it's when they are ready. Doing it any earlier is a waste of time and counterproductive. You'll create more problems for yourself."
It May Happen Naturally
"I have five kids, and I didn't potty train them. I gave them the seat that fits on the toilet and a step stool but that was pretty much all I did. They eventually started using the toilet all the time and told me 'No more diapers.' I think it was between 3 and 4 years old."
Some Start Phasing Out Diapers Around 2
"My rule has always been this: The first birthday means no more bottles or pacifiers. The second birthday, you get a potty and diapers start phasing out."
Smart Strategies Could Make It Go Faster
"I potty trained right before my kids' second birthday. Thankfully it was summer and I had boys. We were out a lot during the warm months. I told them, 'When you have to go potty, pee on the tree.' They were so thrilled with that! It trained them fast, and in no time they were using the toilet!"
Waiting May Pay Off
"It was at age 3½ for both my boys! They never had an accident. All my friends that started or tried earlier — their kids still have accidents! When they are ready, they are ready."
Girls Don't Always Do It Earlier
"I potty trained my son by playing 'dunk the Cheerios.' I put an old coffee can next to our toilet, filled it about halfway with water, put some Cheerios in, and told him to dunk them. We never had a problem. But with my girls, I thought they were going to go to kindergarten in diapers!"
*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.