3 Tips for Kids using the Bathroom Independently

Most parents anxiously await the moment their little one is finally potty trained and out of diapers. It is a wonderful feeling not having to carry a diaper bag anymore. I remember the feeling of freedom when my two children were out of cloth diapers and more independent than ever before. But what about the phase that comes after diapers?

Most people don’t talk about that phase! It is the phase of having to still go to the bathroom with your little one to help him or her wipe after going number one or number two. This phase might take a little longer for children to grow out of, depending on several factors.

All in all, I think this is a phase parents dislike, but more importantly, it is a key phase that will foster independence in children and a sense of empowerment when they can take care of themselves.

Most people don't talk about the phase that comes after diapers. Here are 3 tips for kids using the bathroom independently.

By the time children are potty trained and out of diapers, they are able to do a lot on their own. Some can dress themselves, brush their teeth and hair and can even make their own breakfast. But most cannot wipe themselves successfully after going to the bathroom.

Why is that? Well, it is a skill that requires mastering through practice, patience and physical development. Let me explain what I mean in this post. I will also offer 3 tips that helped our kids go to the bathroom independently.

3 Great Tips for Kids using the Bathroom Independently

1. Make sure they are ready physically

Children develop their fine motor skills and coordinated movements with their extremities at different rates. Some are ready to wipe themselves by 3 and a half and others aren’t ready until 5 and a half. It is important to keep an eye on their physical abilities instead of simply going with our expectations.

Another thing to consider is that some children have shorter arms and it is hard to reach behind them. This has been the case for several children I know, so parents wait until their children’s bodies yield to this independent task instead of saying, “You are such and such age; you should be able to wipe yourself by now.”

Teach your child about proper hygiene habits such as washing their hands before and after using the bathroom, wiping properly, and flushing the toilet. Encourage them to use soap and warm water to wash their hands thoroughly, making sure they know that this is an important step in staying healthy.

2. Make sure they have the best toilet paper

Make sure your child has everything they need in the bathroom, including a stool if needed. This will help them reach the sink and toilet easily. Have a step-by-step system in place for them to follow, whether it’s using a potty seat or standing on a stool to reach the sink. This will give them a sense of control and independence.

When it comes to kids using the bathroom independently, two apprehensions they have are: Will I get my bottom all clean? and Will I get it all over my hands? I know, I know. We have all thought of this, but when children have these fears, it can make them insecure in their ability to master this skill. Using the right toilet paper is super important. We have used some that shreds, some that falls apart and some that isn’t absorbent. Once we discovered Charmin Essentials, we never looked back. It has made our family so happy.

Charmin has a new wonderful line! Charmin Essentials Strong provides a big Charmin Essentials roll at a Scott® 1000- like price. We tried it and we all loved it! Charmin Essentials never disappoints. And, like I said, it is important to use the right kind of toilet paper for children to feel confident that they will get it all with less and that they won’t get it all over their hands because the toilet paper won’t shred.

3. Make sure to praise, encourage, help and practice consistently

Positive reinforcement can go a long way in encouraging independent bathroom use. Praise your child when they successfully use the bathroom on their own, and consider implementing a reward system for consistently good habits. This could be something as simple as earning stickers or choosing a special treat after a certain number of successful trips to the bathroom.

Here is another important tip for kids using the bathroom independently AND successfully. Being patient on both ends is paramount for a less stressful transition from bathroom dependence to bathroom independence. Praising children for trying and for small successes will encourage them to keep trying. Consistency is key and, the more they practice, the better they will get at it.

I highly recommend setting your children up for success by being there for them, to use kind words and lend a helping hand at the beginning. I really recommend trying Charmin Essentials Strong to make this important tool one that they can rely on and not use the kind that will let them down and make a mess. This will definitely discourage them. Instead, with help, praise, encouragement and the best toilet paper, practice will make perfect!

Patience is Key

Remember, every child is different, and toilet training takes time and patience. It’s important to establish good hygiene habits early on and encourage your child’s independence at their own pace. With these tips in mind, you can help make this phase more manageable and rewarding for both you and your child.

So, don’t dread the post-diaper phase – embrace it as an opportunity for growth and independence for your child! With a little guidance and encouragement, your little one will be using the bathroom independently in no time.

Thank you for visiting our 3 Great Tips for Kids using the Bathroom Independently post!

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