One of the rites of passage for toddlers is transitioning from diapers to underwear. It is a deal for kids who want to be "big kids." Also, there are some things like preschool and gymnastics programs that will only allow potty trained kids. So, once a toddler is in underwear full time, a lot of opportunities open up for them. (Plus, no more diapers for mom!)
Tips For Transitioning From Diapers To Underwear
For my preschooler, we moved her up to Pull Ups when she started showing interest in using the potty. Unfortunately, she was "interested" long before she was ready to start using the potty.
I think each kids is ready at their own pace, so don't get discouraged by their age, or their playmates. Listen and watch your child to see what cues they are giving you. And then just go with it.
My preschooler is now in underwear 100% of the time during the day and we are about to take away the night time pull ups. We probably waited longer on those just because the clean up would be difficult if she had an accident.
Here is what other moms have to say about transitioning from diapers to underwear.
Advice and Stories from Real Moms
Give them a reward
Reward tots for using the potty. For my twins, my husband and I had a big sheet of poster board with a line down the middle. (We have twins.) Whenever one of our girls used the potty, she was allowed to choose a sticker to put on her side of the board. The stickers were great motivators, and my tots loved them! They filled up that poster board! - Lauren from Mom Home Guide
Wait until they are ready
My tip is to wait until your child is truly ready. The first time we tried it, our son thought underwear served the same purpose as diapers, so he made quite a mess for days. We tried again several months later and were more successful. - Donella from Wife.Mom.Geek
Never go back
Once you go undies, you never go back. Repeat this mantra. Stick to it. This is one time it's okay to lie to your child and tell them the store won't let you buy anymore diapers. Then stay strong and be prepared for lots of messes! It's worth it.- Valerie from Occasionally Crafty
Let them choose their own undies
We brought Ethan to the shop and let him choose his own undies with his favourite characters on them. Then after a few days of pull ups we just made the change! - Stephanie from Play Learn Every Day
Thank you Moms!
This is just another example of choosing what is best for you and your family. This can be a hard time, as all transitions are. Stay strong, it will happen.
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