You've sorted the sleepless nights, binned the bottles and now you want to ditch the double nappies.
And who could blame you - it's bad enough kitting out one baby in endless pricey nappies . . . but two!!!
Potty training twins may seem like an impossible task but don't despair! Here's some potty training tips for easy, stress free potty training.
1. ARE THEY READY?
The ideal timing for beginning toilet training can vary widely, (from eighteen months to three years old). If your twins are not ready then you'll all be in for a stressful and frustrating time. One twin may be more ready than the other (girls generally want to be out of nappies quicker than boys but there can be variation in same sex twins too). Signs of readiness to learn include showing an interest when others use the toilet, the ability to go for an extended length of time without wetting and being uncomfortable with a soiled nappy. The twins should be cooperative and be able to take simple instructions.
2. CHOOSE YOU TIME
If the twins have a settled routine then potty training can begin but if there is a new baby due, you're moving house or there is any other change in their lives forecast, it may be better to postpone potty training until they are settled. Try not to be in a situation where there is pressure on you to succeed by a certain time (such as a holiday, starting nursery etc). Summer training may be easier than winter - easier to dry clothes!
3.
REWARD SYSTEM
Good if the twins are competitive, not so if they are not so. A sticker chart can help.
4. TWO POTTY SEATS
Even if they don't begin potty training at the same time, there will be hell to pay if both decide they need to sit on the potty at the same time. They need every encouragement and so two potties are a must. They should have their own individual potty too so that there are not fights about who's to sit on the blue one.
5. BE RELAXED
There will be mess, there will be accidents and setbacks. Get their help in cleaning up, and move on. Rome wasn't built in a day. If you are relaxed, they will be too.
6. PLAN ACCORDINGLY
Stock up on cleaning supplies. Use gates to keep potty training twins out of rooms that are off-limits. Put away expensive throw rugs or bedspreads. Don't dress them in dry clean only clothes and make sure they're not hampered by zips buttons etc.
7. POTTY TIME
This will work well with twins who have a strict routine. When twins eat, drink and sleep on the same schedule, they're also more likely to "use the facilities" together. Introducing potty time as part of their daily routine can help them use the toilet consistently. Get them to sit on the potty every couple of hours for five - ten minutes (perhaps incorporate story time at the same time). If one does a wee / poo then give them massive amounts of praise.
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