Potty training is a pivotal time in a child’s life–it’s one of the first steps towards their independence. But how do you know if they’re ready? As parents, there are signs to look for that can help with a gentle transition into potty training.

Some tell-tale signals: They remain dry for longer stretches, recognize they’ve soiled their diapers, communicate when they need to go, can pull their pants up and down, or follow basic instructions.

When a Baby Is Ready to Potty Train

A baby’s potty training readiness hinges on their physical, development, and behavioral growth–not their age. Remember that you can only effectively teach your kid how to use the potty when they’re ready; you can’t force them to do it if they’re not. To know if they’re ready, here’s a list of signs you should look out for:

They Can Stay Dry for Up to Two Hours at a Time

As kids grow, they’re able to better control their bladder. If you notice your child has longer stretches without soiling their diaper, they may be developing more awareness of when they need to go.

They Can Tell if They Have a Soiled Diaper

When your baby can tell that they have a soiled diaper, it signals that they can understand their body better and recognize how it functions. At this stage, it’ll be easier to teach them the concept of potty training.

They Can Recognize and Communicate When They Need to Go

Being able to recognize and communicate when they need to go to the can is one of the best signs that a baby is ready to potty train. It exhibits that they’re becoming more self-aware and that they can control their bladder enough to tell you they need to wee before they do.

They Can Walk and Sit on a Toilet

You can only potty train a kid who can perform the steps to do it. When they’re able to walk and sit on the potty, it’ll make a convenient and quick transition to the toilet.

They Can Follow Simple Directions

If your child can follow simple instructions, that’s another good sign that they may be ready for potty training. Their comprehension should be enough that they can learn from your direction.

They Can Pull Their Pants Up and Down

Pull-on style diapers are often used for potty training, so it’s helpful if they can pull their bottoms up and down on their own.

A training pant, like Coterie’s The Pant, is a great way to help the transition into potty training. It helps build comfort and confidence, without sacrificing day + night absorbency, and you can change it lying down like a diaper, if needed.

Potty Train With Coterie’s The Pant

When you’re ready to potty train your baby, try Coterie’s The Pant. The pull-it-on-and-off design helps build those potty training motor skills, while the resealable waistband gives you the option for traditional, horizontal diaper changes.