Parents should try to avoid clothing with complicated snaps and buttons during the training period. Some parents find the use of rewards a good way to encourage toileting behaviors. Such rewards, if they are used, should be reserved for the actual times that the child urinates or has a B.M. in the toilet or potty-chair. Larger rewards, such as a trip to the park with Mommy and Daddy, can be used less frequently. Rewards should be phased out after the child is consistently successful with using the toilet or potty.
Many children find it very encouraging to keep a chart of their progress.
Charting is also a good way for parents to keep track of their child's progress. Here are some things that parents can do with their children to help prepare them for the actual training process. These things should optimally take place well before formal toilet training begins. Read books about toilet training with your child before beginning. Young children see their parents and older siblings as role models.