DD is 16 months, when should i be thinking about potty training?

[GhoulsAreLoud]

Haven't given it a moments thought, tbh.

But should I be getting her a potty at least to get her used to it?

Thanks.

Everyone I know (almost without exception) has had a harder time of it by starting before 2.5 years old.

Better to wait until they are practically training themselves IMO. Somewhere between 2.5 - 3 years.

I had two very different experiences with DD1 and DD2. DD1 trained at 2years3 months when I had a six week old DD2 (I was certifiable clearly)

DD2 I tried at 2.5 and again a few months later, only finally has it clicked at 3years 1 month and was very stressful for all mainly because I didn't wait until she was truly ready.

On the other hand... you could start putting her on the potty when she wakes up in the morning/before and after naps/leaving the house, etc. and using the potty sign. Everyone I know who has started around this age or earlier (13 months) has had their toddler pooing in the toilet by 18 months and potty trained by 2. And that's without all the frustrating accidents (leave them in nappies or pull-ups with regular toilet trips). It's stress-free for parents and toddler if you do it that way.

TBH I couldn't be bothered with the effort of it all. I waited till both of mine were nearly three before trying. Worked like a dream and hardly any effort on my part at that age. Intend to do the same with DS2.

Fanjolina we didn't have a hard time introducing the potty early to DD. She was fully trained (day & night) by 23 months. As ches and others have pointed out you can introduce the potty at changing times, so not much extra effort, and if they use it it's an extra bonus. Honestly DD caught on really quickly when I tried her with the potty at 11 months, and very soon would not poo in a nappy.

However I know it has a lot to do with the personality of the child. I will be introducing the potty to DS just as soon as he can sit unaided - so about 5/6 months, but I am not expecting miracles. This form of potty training is all about a gentle introduction to natural elimination and giving them the opportunity to be more comfortable if they wish. It is just a bonus for us parents not to have to change shitty nappies for another year .

ches, have you heard the sad news over at BLW? Just devastating.

I have indeed. Actually logged into the forum to post condolences.

I also see I've previously posted on this thread.