Pull out the equipment. Place a potty chair in the bathroom. You may want to try a model with a removable top that can be placed directly on the toilet when your child is ready. Encourage your child to sit on the potty chair â with or without a diaper. Make sure your child's feet rest firmly on the floor or a stool. As your child checks out the potty chair, help him or her learn how to talk about using the bathroom. Use simple, correct terms. Let your child see you and other family members using the toilet.