WATCHING your toddler grow up is so exciting - until it's time to introduce potty training to the schedule.
Luckily, here to make it a breeze, one parenting expert, Kirsty Ketley, has revealed some of her top tips, and why setting timers will do more harm than good.
Ready to go?
Chatting exclusively to Fabulous, the mum-of-two, better known as Auntie K., explained that first you need to be sure your tot is ready to ditch the nappies.
As well as the physical signs, such as longer periods of dry nappies, telling you they want to use the potty, the child needs to be emotionally and psychotically ready too.
''If they are not, it doesn't matter how ready they are physically, they won't crack it,'' the pro insisted.
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If your kid is struggling with this, Kirsty, from Surrey, said there were a few things that could help with the progress, for instance, being independent in areas such as eating and dressing.
''Ensuring that they are allowed some control - controlled choices are very helpful for this.
''This is where you give your child a choice of two things, for example, two meal ideas, outfits to wear, both of which you are happy for them to choose.
''This helps your child feel in control - which toddlers love, and in turn builds up their self-confidence and self-esteem. ''
She reminded: ''If there are changes happening in your child's life - house move, new sibling, new nursery, it's best to wait until things have settled down before toilet training.''
When thinking about this big stage in their life, the whizz also urged parents to not worry about the tot's age.
What NOT to do
Rather than comparing your kid's progress with that of their peers', it's better to wait - that's when they will definitely be ready.
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Although it may be tempting to reward your child with sweets, Kirsty strongly advised against this potty-training method.
The expert explained: ''Bribes and rewards are not necessary - they won't work anyhow, or will only work for a short time if your child isn't ready and if they are ready, praise is enough of a reward.
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''It's best to ditch training pants and nappies and go straight to wearing underwear - if they are resistant to wearing underwear, go without until their confidence builds.''
The mum-of-two also claimed that spending a week at home also won't be beneficial - in fact, being in the same setting will be quite the opposite.
They should never be punished.''
Kirsty Ketley
''It's important that they learn to use toilets or the potty in different settings, so use a travel potty or take a portable loo seat with you and encourage your child to use public toilets,'' Kirsty noted.
Another big no-no is using timers or constantly asking them, she revealed.
This is because peeing on demand can be pressurising - and it's best if they recognise the feeling of when they need to go.
''Instead, make using the potty part of routine - so first thing in the morning, before snack, meal times, before you leave the house if it's been an hour since they last went, for instance.''
Phrases to use - and the ones to steer clear of
It's easy to lose patience and become frustrated if your child is making no to little progress - but telling off won't solve the issue.
Kirsty said: ''Accidents will happen, and it's important that you deal with these in a positive way.
'' 'Oops, you didn't get to the potty, that's ok, but next time, let's see if you can' instead of telling them off and making them feel bad.
''They should never be punished.''
She added: ''Pile on the praise - children respond well to praise, so make sure you let them know what a great job they are doing.''
Kirsty has also recently launched Potty Training Hub on Facebook, where fellow mums and dads can ask questions, seek support and chat with other parents.