Kids being kids, anything is possible, then again, somethings are impossible. As parents, all we can do is try.

We can however do things in such a way that life is easier for all of us. I firmly believe that kids learn best when they are happy, when they are enjoying the activity and when we are relaxed. The question is, do we want to turn something like potty training into a game?

The problem is in our approach. Even the terminology, which affects our thinking, is wrong. Rather than "Potty Training", when should be looking at "Potty Learning". What's the difference I hear you ask? Training is what you get someone to do. Learning is what you do interactively with someone. So potty training - sit on the potty and do it. Potty learning - lets go sit on the potty and see what happens.

Rather than turning the potty/toilet experience into a task, turn it into an adventure. Go with the child. Sit down on the toilet yourself while the child is on the potty. Whether or not the child does anything, show them how to use the paper. How to flush, and of course, how to wash their hands afterwards. Most kids love playing in water (so long as its not the toilet water).

It will not take long before your young ones starts to produce the goods - in the right place and at the right time. They will start to ask for the potty - after all - its fun, not a chore. The only real problem you will have is the "I need to use the potty" routine every 5/10 minutes. That will soon disappear - but it is replaced with a fully potty 'trained' child. A child that you haven't had to train - a child that has learnt by experience and by friendly participation. If you have a young one whom you think is almost ready - give it try. Let me know how you get on.