5 Signs Your Toddler Is Ready for Potty Training (Plus a Fun Way to Start!)

By Telicia Brown, Author of Potty Time is Fun! and Founder of Tiny Book Treasures

Potty training can feel like a big milestone—for both you and your toddler. The truth is, knowing when to start is just as important as how to start. If you begin too early, your child might resist or feel frustrated. If you wait too long, it could lead to missed opportunities for independence and routine building.

So how do you know it’s time? Below are five clear signs your toddler may be ready for potty training—and a joyful way to begin the journey!

Potty Training Sign #1: Your Child Stays Dry for Longer Periods

One of the first signs of potty training readiness is when your toddler stays dry for at least 2–3 hours at a time. This shows their bladder muscles are developing and they’re beginning to understand their body’s signals.

Potty Training Sign #2: They Show Interest in the Bathroom

Is your toddler curious about the toilet? Do they follow you into the bathroom, ask questions, or want to “flush”? These are good signs they’re observing and learning.

Encourage this curiosity gently. Let them watch a potty routine, explain the steps, and even let them sit on a potty chair—just for fun!

Potty Training Sign #3: They Can Communicate Basic Needs

Potty training goes smoother when your toddler can tell you they need to go or that their diaper is wet. If they’re using phrases like “pee,” “poo,” or “potty,” that’s a green light.

You don’t need full sentences—just basic words or gestures that help you understand what they need.

Potty Training Sign #4: Your Toddler Hates a Dirty Diaper

If your little one starts pulling off their diaper, asking to be changed right away, or showing visible discomfort after going, they’re starting to value cleanliness. That’s a great motivator for potty training success.

Potty Training Sign #5: They Can Follow Simple Instructions

Can your toddler follow one- or two-step directions like “sit down” or “pull your pants up”? Potty training involves small tasks—like sitting on the potty, wiping, and washing hands—so it’s helpful if they can follow through with basic steps.

✅ Bonus Tip: Make It Fun, Not Frustrating!

Starting potty training doesn’t have to be a battle. That’s exactly why I created Potty Time is Fun!—a joyful, toddler-friendly book that turns the potty journey into a story they’ll want to repeat. It’s filled with vibrant illustrations, easy rhymes, and even a matching potty progress chart to celebrate every step!

📘 Grab your copy here

🌟 Download your free printable potty chart

💬 Final Thoughts

Every child develops on their own timeline. If your toddler shows two or more of these signs, it’s a great time to introduce potty training gently. Be patient, consistent, and encouraging—and don’t forget to celebrate even the small wins!

Telicia Brown

Author | Creator | Dream Builder

📚Potty Time is Fun!

💛 Helping toddlers grow with joy—one book at a time.