Every parenting forum will tell you a different age. Two. Two and a half. Three. The truth: there's no universally right age, only readiness signs. Here's what we actually watch for in our preschool room before we start partnering with parents on potty training.
1. They notice when their diaper is wet or dirty.
Sounds obvious. It isn't. A child who's potty-ready will tug at their diaper, tell you they pooped, or ask for a change. That awareness of bodily sensation is the foundation. Without it, training is just adults guessing on a schedule.
2. They can stay dry for 2+ hours at a stretch.
Bladder control develops on its own timeline. Once your child is consistently waking up dry from naps or going long stretches without needing a change, the physical machinery is ready.
3. They show interest in the bathroom.
Following you in. Asking what you're doing. Wanting to sit on the toilet themselves. That curiosity is gold — it's the easiest doorway into training.
4. They can pull pants up and down.
Underrated. A child who can't manage their own clothes will get frustrated fast. Test it: can they pull on stretchy pants by themselves? If yes, you're closer than you think.
5. They can follow a 2-step instruction.
"Go get your shoes and bring them to me." If they can do that consistently, they can follow the sequence of pulling down pants, sitting, wiping, and washing hands.