The process is helped if the parent tracks when the child generally urinates, either in a diaper or the potty, and then structures times that are most likely to yield success. Parents can also look for signs that the child needs to urinate or defecate and try to quickly get the child to the potty to help him associate the activity with the new routine. This approach was originally developed as a way to help special needs children learn mature toilet behavior, but has since been adapted for all children. It involves setting aside one or two days for intensive training, including doll play, checking for dry pants, and praise for correct behavior. Some parents are sold on the idea and some do some variation on this method.
Proponents find the results to be long-lasting.
Rewards Experts differ on the quantity and style of rewards for children while they are being toilet trained. One approach suggests motivating children with small tokens such as stickers immediately after a successful use of the potty. Charts can be useful in helping children see their progress. Some children can be motivated by a reward requiring more steps, such as getting a small prize for staying dry for an entire day. And while some professionals, and other parents, go the route of effusive praise and applause, others say a more nonchalant attitude can help keep the activity in perspective.