It’s one of the most anticipated moments in a parent’s “career,” and also one of the most dreaded—potty training. While the anticipation of diaper-free days can cause parents to skip past the diaper aisle and straight towards the potty chairs, potty training can also be a

However, potty training does not need to be a difficult process. The key is knowing WHEN to start. Almost everyone has heard the saying; “You can’t lead a horse to water.” Well, the same goes for toddlers. No matter how hard parents try, they simply can’t “lead a toddler to the potty” unless the toddler is ready. Waiting until your toddler is ready to potty will not only help speed up the potty training process, it will make it enjoyable.

But how will you know when your toddler is ready for help to start potty training?

Believe it or not, there are telltale signs that almost all toddler's exhibit. Bear in mind, however, that toddlers must exhibit more than one sign to be deemed completely ready for potty training. Generally, waiting until your toddler exhibits at least two signs will ensure that potty training runs as smoothly as possible.

Some of the signs that your toddler is ready for potty training are:

• Diaper Change Requests
Does your toddler ask you to change his or her diaper immediately after filling it? Congratulations! Your toddler is aware that their dirty, and doesn’t like the feeling. Using a potty will help them to avoid this discomfort.

• Private Moments
Many parents often giggle when their toddlers stop their favorite game of blocks, run over to a hidden corner, and crouch down—only to return once their “business” is finished. Toddlers who delineate potty time from playtime can not only control their functions, but also are aware that these functions deserve their own time and place away from the everyday routines of life.

• Interest
It seems straight forward, but many parents are often so exhausted they don’t notice. If your toddler shows an interest in wearing underwear, using toilet paper, or the potty, this is the perfect time (potentially) to introduce potty training. Toddlers wanting to mimic Mom and Dad (or older siblings) are more likely to embrace moving from diapers to “the big potty.”