Question
My baby started potty training at ten months old and is now a year and a half. I want to know if this training method is suitable and if there are potential hazards if it’s done long-term.
Answer
It’s okay to let your baby engage in potty training, but it’s recommended not to frequent urination training to avoid issues like rectal prolapse. Parents should pay attention to the baby’s mood and willingness, and communicate with the baby more. At the same time, you can start purposefully training your baby to defecate at specific times and places to help establish regular bowel habits. Generally, a 15-month-old baby can be trained to be aware of defecation after doing so, 18 to 24-month-old babies can distinguish between urine and feces and express them, and 24-month-old babies can express their need to defecate. For babies between 30 to 36 months, it is suggested that they use a special potty or toilet for defecation. During the training process, do not punish the child; if progress is slow, you can pause for 2 to 3 months before trying again.