I believe that babies can be trained for toilet habits at a very early age, even in infancy. This was what happened with my first kid. His babysitter was very particulary with this as she doesn't like to clean on waste so what she did was to make the baby pee and poo every now and then. It worked and my children, they never wet in the bed ever since. It made them so uncomfortable.

Not to sound silly, but how exactly do you "MAKE" an infant go to the bathroom?

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Tigriz
Mom to Alex - 1/21/06

I agree with Tigriz. I don't know how you make a child go. You can get lucky and have them happen to be on the toilet when it happens, but I preferred to just let this happen in due time. They are only little for a short time anyway.

Actually, in many countries, they start training the babies as early as three months. Mom will hold the baby between her legs and let him go in the potty or the pot (depending on where they are). I've also heard that if you make the noise (sssss or grunting) it will clue the child to make those noises when the urge strikes.

I think its not so much that the child is trained as it is that mom is trained. However, anything is possible.

What are the best potty training tips out there? what have you guys done that has worked really well?

My SIL did this. She's from India and while she was visiting her family with the baby they started working on this. I believe it takes a lot of time and attention though, and she's gotten away from the practice.

The best tip I have for potty training is to encourage but not push. My first son was 4 before he was completely potty trained. My second son was 2. I'm suprised that my third son hasn't already managed this accomplishment . He's already 7 mths.

Oh, and be patient. No matter how many people say "he's not potty trained yet?" don't panic. They do this at what ever age it happens. That or say "you mean you already potty trained them?"

Patience is definately the key. Also, positive reinforcement all the way and not punishing for mistakes. I know that sounds simple, but so many people berate their kids for making "mistakes" - this is part of the process and kids will learn from it and don't need to be yelled at for it.

Ketkat, thanks for explaining in my absence

I don't think you should make a child who's under a year be trained also, but it's everyone's individual choice. They will usually show signs when they are ready, and I believe that's what you should watch for. Let them be little while they still can.