Once you decide your child is ready for potty training it's time to prepare! 

Potty Training Essentials

Whether you're potty training a boy or a girl, your shopping list will look the same: 

• Underwear - this one is self-explanatory! Our top tip with underwear is: If your little one has a favourite cartoon character, getting underwear with them on will encourage the switch from nappies. Plus, your little one won't want to wee on their hero!

• Potty - keep the potty in the living room so your child can always see it and quickly make it in time. It helps to have multiple potties around the house so you're never too far away from one. If you have carpets, remember to protect them by placing a washable pad underneath the potty. 

• Toilet seat insert - some children prefer to use the big toilet straight away! Toilet seat inserts will give your little one confidence that they won't fall in. 

• Waterproof bed pads - PeapodMats are the most convenient option. They stay in place without straps and absorb liquid fast. Perfect for covering chairs, sofas, beds and carpets (especially around the potty).

• Easy on/off clothing - trousers with buttons or zips are a no-go, at least for now, as they take too long to pull down. 

Once you've completed your shopping, you can start talking to your child about potty training. Showing them the potty and reading books about potty training is a great way to get them excited about the idea. Let them decorate their potty with stickers for an even more exciting build-up!