The Truth About Potty Training Timelines: Why Your Toddler Isn’t ‘Behind’
If you’ve ever caught yourself whispering, "Should they be potty trained by now?" — you’re not alone.
There’s so much noise out there about the "right" age, the "best" method, and how quickly it should happen. And if your toddler isn’t following that magical timeline? It can feel like something’s gone wrong.
Let’s take a deep breath together.
Here’s the truth: most of those timelines floating around aren’t rooted in child development. They’re rooted in pressure — from social media, daycare forms, relatives, or even our own expectations.
So... when should potty training happen?
Potty learning is a neurological, physical, and emotional milestone. And just like walking or talking, it happens on a curve. Some toddlers are ready at 20 months. Some closer to 3.5. Both are normal.
There isn’t a perfect age. There’s a readiness window, and each child lands in it at their own pace.
What matters more than age is whether your toddler is showing signs they’re developmentally ready. (That’s why I created a [Readiness Checklist] to help you spot them.)
Why the comparison game is so sneaky (and unfair)
The toddler down the street who potty trained in a weekend? Maybe they were truly ready. Maybe their parents had lots of support. Or maybe what you saw was just the highlight reel.
Potty training isn’t a race. But when we treat it like one, we’re more likely to:
Push before our toddler is ready
Use strategies that don’t align with their needs
Feel discouraged or defeated when progress isn’t linear
Your toddler isn’t behind. They’re learning in the way their body and brain are designed to.
Signs your toddler is right on time (even if they haven’t trained yet):
They're becoming more aware of their body (like noticing a wet or dirty diaper)
They want more independence
They’re interested in the bathroom or watching others go
They can follow basic directions or routines
Bottom line?
Your child isn’t behind. There is no deadline.
When you wait for the right signs and use strategies that feel playful and supportive, it doesn’t just work better — it feels better.
If you’re not sure what those signs are, my free [Readiness Checklist] walks you through them. No pressure. Just clarity and support so you can make the next step with confidence.