Cleanliness: how to begin the learning process?

Nighttime dryness is achieved by children after they are dry during the day. For some, this happens after only a few months, and for others, a few years. First and foremost, your child must be completely independent and dry during the day before you can even think about working on nighttime dryness. The child must be sufficiently aware of the urge to urinate and the need to hold it. They must be able to use the toilet independently during the day.

Here are our tips for potty training:

• Don't forbid or mislead the use of diapers or absorbent underwear until your child is ready. The important thing is not to frustrate them but to encourage them.
• If you're starting potty training, use a washable bed pad from the beginning. Your child will be less stressed, and nighttime accidents will be much easier to clean up.
• Establish a regular bedtime. Children need routine. For example, you can put them to bed at 8:30 a.m. on weekdays and a little later on weekends or holidays if needed. Always keep in mind the importance of maintaining consistent bedtimes.
• Encourage your child to drink often during the day and banish in favour of water before bedtime (min 2H30 before), all soda and sugar-based drinks (Coca-Cola, Orangina, apple juice, orange juice, syrup).
• Establish a toileting routine. Your child should go to the toilet frequently during the day. For example:
  • At sunrise
  • At noon
  • At snack time
  • In the evening JUST before going to sleep
• Remove absorbent diapers and underwear (e.g., Drynites) ONLY and as soon as you notice a few dry nights, but always continue to use a washable bed pad.
• Remind your child to use the toilet at night if (and only if) they are awake for any reason. REMINDER: Do not wake a child to take them to the toilet.

You'll need to be patient, and if your child isn't potty-trained by age 6, we recommend using a bedwetting alarm to speed up the process. Nighttime dryness is always an important milestone, but don't forget that all children need love and cuddles. Set goals that are achievable. All children grow up differently, but they all share this one thing: they love you and want you to be proud of them.