Caregivers must build a trusting, loving relationship before trying to toilet train any child. Before toilet training begins, myelinization, a neurological development necessary for controlling sphincter muscles, must be complete and toddlers must be able to sit easily for long periods. To help children recognize toilet needs, caregivers should watch for children's clutching signs. Bladder capabilities differ, readiness for toilet learning differs widely, and boys and girls differ in their ease with toilet learning. Caregivers should pay attention to their children's cues to determine readiness for toilet learning. Since language aids in toilet training, caregivers should wait until children can speak before beginning training. Caregivers should not shame a child when toilet training, nor withdraw love as punishment when toddlers have difficulty with training. Rather, caregivers should be patient and toilet train without breaking a toddler's will. Toddlers can watch others model the use of a toilet, and can be taught the process in component skills (lowering pants, sitting on the potty chair, releasing sphincter muscles, and so forth). Toddlers should use a potty seat at floor level. When accidents happen, caregivers should explain the importance of toileting in appropriate places and remember that toilet learning takes time, cooperation, and alertness. (MM)