If your child is showing signs he or she is ready to potty train, it's helpful to be prepared to get started! Make sure your children understand a little about digestion and hydration so they know why they have to use the potty. Then, try playing these games to educate them and assist in the process:

1. Talk about the body

Babies don't think about peeing or pooping - they just do it. Making the transition from no thought to actively seeking out the bathroom when they need to go is a huge step for kids. They have to know why they need to use the restroom in order to make them want to do so. Talk with your little ones about how what they eat goes down their throat, into their belly and eventually has to come out. Tell the tots to use their fingers to trace a line from their mouths to their bellies and then down to their private areas. This illustrates where body waste travels and that it needs to come out. You can also discuss this process in terms of your pets. Explaining that the kitty goes potty in the litter box is a great illustration of digestion that kids can see with their own eyes.

2. Ask if they need to go

It's not uncommon for little ones to enjoy sitting on their potties for long periods of time even when they don't have to go because parents become excited at the prospect. However, simply sitting there without the urge to use the toilet isn't helpful - it can actually be counterproductive! Play a game by asking your kids if they need to go to the bathroom every 20 minutes after they eat or drink. They probably look forward to the opportunity to gain your praise for using the toilet, so they may giggle and say, "No!" until they really do need to go. 

Each child has different signs he or she needs to use the restroom, but common ones include holding their legs together like they need to pee or feeling a full belly. You likely noticed some of these signs while your child was wearing diapers, so pay attention and you'll soon be able to ask, "Do you have to take a potty break?" and receive a perfectly timed, "Yes!" in reply. 

Reading a book about the potty while trying to go can be helpful for toddlers.

3. Read books

Parents quickly learn that kids love to linger in the loo. Just like some adults read in the bathroom to pass the time, toddlers can benefit from this activity as well. Stash a few potty books in the bathroom at home so they can read about going to the bathroom while doing it. Just don't let your little ones sit on the toilet for too long. Straining and waiting forever can be bad habits - have the child leave the bathroom after 10 minutes or so if he or she hasn't gone.

4. Tell your little one to potty train a stuffed animal

Another way to help your children understand potty training is to have them explain it to their favorite stuffed animals. Going through the steps can be more fun when the child is accompanied by a plushy pal. While sitting on the potty, ask your kiddos to tell their stuffed animals what they're doing and why. You could even have a mini potty for the toy to sit on along with your kids. Just make sure your little one has washed his or her hands before snuggling up to the plush after using the restroom.