Shane tells the nurse that she wants to begin toilet training her 22-month-old child. The most important factor for the nurse to stress to the mother is:
A. Developmental level of the child’s peers
B. Consistency in approach
C. The mother’s positive attitude
D. Developmental readiness of the child
Correct Answer: D. Developmental readiness of the child
There is no right age to toilet train a child. Readiness to begin toilet training depends on the individual child. If the child isn’t developmentally ready, the child and parent will become frustrated. Signs of potty training readiness include pulling at a wet or dirty diaper, awakening dry from a nap, hiding to go or going to an area to pee or poop, and having predictable bowel movements.
Option A: Developmental levels of children are individualized and comparison to peers isn’t useful. In general, starting before age 2 (24 months) is not recommended. The readiness skills and physical development the child needs occur between age 18 months and 2.5 years.
Option B: Consistency is important once toilet training has already started. Each child has his or her own style of behavior, which is called temperament. In planning your approach to toilet training, it is important to consider your child’s temperament.
Option C: The mother’s positive attitude is important when the child is ready. The parents should try not to feel pressured to toilet train the child. If the parents are feeling pressured to train the child because of caregiver considerations or family members’ views, their anxiety about toilet training can create anxiety in the child.