How To Do The First Step in Potty Training - Standing Diaper Changes

Standing diaper changes are a great first step in teaching toilet independence (potty training).

When a child lies down for diaper changes, the process can be quite passive.

Standing diaper changes make the process more cooperative and collaborative, reducing frustration and avoiding unnecessary power struggles.

When To Start Standing Diaper Changes

Once your child is:

1. Starting to show an interest in using the toilet independently, i.e. pulling down their pants or pulling on their soiled diaper
2. Becoming more resistant to laying down for a diaper change
3. Able to support themselves in standing position (while holding on to something) for the length of time it takes to change a diaper

Here's How to Get Started

1. Choose the right spot: A safe, stable place for your child to hold on is important. This could be a low shelf, the edge of the bathtub or even your leg.  Keep diapering supplies within reach, including a garbage for soiled diapers.  
   
   
2. Use clear language: Let your child know what’s happening. Talk them through the steps.  
   
   
3. Encourage participation: Hand your child a wipe, ask them to lift a leg or invite them to pull up their pants. Take your time. 
   
   If you’re changing diapers in the bathroom, you can also add a step of inviting the child to sit on the toilet after you’ve removed their diaper. Realistically, the child probably won’t need to use the toilet, but it gives them a chance to practice sitting on and getting off of it, building connections between diapering and toileting.
   
   
4. Be patient: If your child isn’t used to standing diaper changes, it may take a few tries before they’re comfortable. It also takes time for you to adjust to changing diapers this way, so go easy on yourself.
   
   If a standing diaper change isn’t going smoothly or is impractical at the moment, you can simply let your child know that you're going to use the change table this time. It’s not an all or nothing situation, you can use both methods up until the child is fully toilet independent. It is very common for educators and families to only do standing diaper changes for pee diapers.  

If you're getting ready to teach toilet independence, here's our past articles about Toilet Independence:

• The Montessori Approach to Potty Training (Toilet Independence)
• The ONE Thing You Can Do To Make Potty Training Easier
• 4 Potty Training 'Signs of Readiness'