Weaning and potty training

When and how to begin, with practical tips for you and your little explorer.

"Let's go change the diaper!" And that’s when the race up the stairs, down the hallways, and under the bed begins. As your little explorer grows, diaper changes can turn into a nonstop chase.


Potty training is the moment when, gently and at your child’s pace, you help them say goodbye to diapers and become more independent. It may take some time before your child feels fully comfortable without a diaper, because this is a process of maturation and adaptation. Every child is unique, so don’t worry if this journey takes longer than expected. In this article, you’ll find tips on how to support your child without putting pressure on them.

The fateful moment of changing the diaper

You’ve probably already noticed how different diaper changes are with an older child compared to a newborn. Your child is much more active now, has a mind of their own, and may not want to be changed.

But what can you do when your child runs from one side to the other, hiding in every corner of the house?

Try to help your child understand what’s happening by announcing the diaper change, for example: "I think your diaper is full—we need to change it right away," so this moment feels important. Even if you manage to convince them, it still won’t be easy to keep them still, which is why pull-up diapers can be the simplest and quickest option. With pull-up diapers, your child can be actively involved in the changing process—for example, by asking them to try putting them on by themselves, without your help.

How to tell if it's time to start potty training?

Children begin to gain control of their bladder and bowel between their second and fifth birthdays; however, the exact timing varies from child to child.

When a child is still unable to consciously control these functions, they may need to go about 20 times throughout the day. From around the sixth month onward, the intervals become longer, until the child consciously realizes they are about to urinate (around two and a half years old). Even then, it takes a little more time before they can actually hold it. For most children, full control develops by their fourth birthday.

When do you start potty training the child?


The terms "potty training" or " potty training " are often used in relation to potty training and the moment when the child feels the need to be independent. However, these are not necessarily the most appropriate terms, because giving up diapers should not be seen as training or teaching. Perhaps you’ve heard from your parents or grandparents that, in their generation, the idea that children should be taught to be clean as early as possible was still widespread.
Today we know that the transition from diaper to toilet is a milestone that every child experiences , sooner or later, and that cannot necessarily be accelerated through active training . Putting a child on the potty for hours and asking them to go is not necessarily effective, and it can even have the opposite effect if they feel pressured. So, what can you do instead?

How to choose the potty


A vasino can help facilitate the transition from diaper to toilet ; however, there are also alternatives, such as a child seat and stairs for children, which can help your child use the toilet at first. Choosing the most suitable option isn’t always easy, so try involving your child in the decision and let them try what they like best.

Characteristics of the perfect potty:

  • Easy to use

  • Proportional to the child's height—neither too tall nor too short.

  • Durable.

  • Stable and secure.

Variety of pots:


  • Classic: lightweight, simple, and easy to carry.

  • Fun and in a variety of shapes: for children who are still reluctant about the new routine. This can be a great way to spark their curiosity and help them see this moment in a playful way.

  • Travel bidet: simple and foldable, for those with limited space or who are often away from home.

  • Vase like the "big ones": the same shape, but smaller in size.

  • Vasino that makes a sound when the child pees—guaranteed laughs!

Our tips for potty training

  1. Sometimes there really isn’t time—you have to go quickly. That’s why it’s much easier to pull down a T-shirt and pants than to deal with complicated bodysuits.

  2. As soon as your child stops using diapers, it’s a good idea to always have a change of clothes with you, especially at the beginning.

  3. Even if your child already sleeps without a diaper at night, it’s completely normal for it to take some time before they can control their bladder during sleep. A washable mattress protector is easy to clean and helps prevent urine from leaking onto the mattress.

  4. LILLYDOO green training pants are perfect for the transition. Your little explorer can pull them up and down like regular pants, while still staying dry if something goes wrong.

Frequently asked questions

How to tell it's time for potty training?

Your child can pull down their pants on their own. They can sit on the potty or toilet by themselves. Your child is able to tell when they need to go and wants to be taken to the bathroom. The diaper stays dry for longer than three or four hours. Your child shows interest in the toilet or potty. They no longer want to be changed.

How to start potty training?

SPARK INTEREST : start by making the child interested in the potty, for example by choosing a comfortable spot to place it. EXPLAIN WHAT IS HAPPENING : imitation is usually the best way to learn: simply take your child to the bathroom when you go, to show them what happens there. FROM DIAPER TO POTTY/TOILET: you can initially leave the diaper off for a few hours during the day and offer the potty as an alternative. NIGHTTIME PHASE : start removing the diaper at night only when the child is truly independent during the day. To make it easier for the child to get up at night, you can place the potty near the bed or leave the bathroom light on. PATIENCE: praise your little explorer at every step: if they manage to pull down their pants, stay dry for a few hours or the first night, it’s a good reason to celebrate with them.

How to potty train without trauma?

Do not compare your child with other children of the same age and their progress. Every child has their own rhythm and sooner or later, "the problem" will resolve itself. Be patient and do not let those around you make you feel insecure. As with many topics, almost everyone has a supposed good advice for getting rid of diapers. Praise your little explorer at every step: if they manage to pull down their pants, stay dry for a few hours or the first night, it's a good reason to celebrate with them. Don't be disappointed and don't scold them if something goes wrong; all of this is natural and there is nothing your child should be ashamed of.