Absorbent device and method for training toddlers

Abstract

The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a disposable toilet training device for a toddler, which comprises an absorbent matting placed in proximity to a base of the toilet. The absorbent matting comprises positioning indicia, where the indicia provides position guidance for positioning of the toddler relative to the toilet.

1 . A disposable toilet training device for a toddler using a toilet, comprising: 
 an absorbent matting adapted for being placed in proximity to a base of the toilet, the absorbent matting comprising positioning indicia, the indicia providing guidance for positioning of the toddler relative to the toilet.    
   
   
       2 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent matting comprises a cut-away region along one side for abutting the toilet base.  
   
   
       3 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent matting comprises a contact surface for securing the absorbent matting to a floor area located in proximity to the toilet base, and preventing the matting from slipping.  
   
   
       4 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent matting comprises a wetness indicator for exhibiting a detectable indication in response to being contacted with moisture.  
   
   
       5 . The device according to  claim 2 , wherein the cut-away region further comprises an adhesive collar for adhering the periphery of the cut-away region to the toilet base for creating a seal therebetween, and preventing the matting from slipping.  
   
   
       6 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the positioning indicia are footprint-shaped for encouraging the toddler to stand on during urination.  
   
   
       7 . The device according to  claim 4 , wherein the wetness indicator provides the toddler with an indication of a lack of complete success when urinating in the toilet.  
   
   
       8 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent matting comprises a plurality of layers.  
   
   
       9 . The device according to  claim 2 , wherein the cut-away region is shaped to conform the periphery of a base of the toilet to which it abuts.  
   
   
       10 . The device according to  claim 4 , wherein the detectable indication comprises a change in color.  
   
   
       11 . The device according to  claim 10 , wherein at least a portion of the matting is treated with a substance that undergoes a color change upon hydration, the color change forming the detectable indication.  
   
   
       12 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the detectable indication comprises a material for detecting an acid condition of the urine upon its contact with the absorbent matting.  
   
   
       13 . The device according to  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent matting comprises a shape complementary to an intended area of coverage.  
   
   
       14 . A method for training a toddler to urinate into a toilet, the toilet having an orifice and a base, the method comprising the steps of: 
 (a) placing a disposable liquid-absorbent matting in proximity to the toilet base, wherein the liquid absorbent matting absorbs liquid spills and exhibits a perceptible indication in response to absorption of liquid spills resulting from the toddler inadvertently urinating other than into the toilet orifice;    (b) instructing the toddler to stand on the liquid absorbent matting so that the toddler is suitably positioned with respect to the toilet; and    (c) communicating to the toddler the relationship between the perceptible indication on the liquid absorbent matting and urinating other than into the toilet orifice, so that the toddler is encouraged to urinate only into the toilet orifice.    
   
   
       15 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the liquid absorbent matting comprises footprint indicia positioned on either side of the matting and oriented toward the toilet when the matting is engaged for use with respect to the toilet, whereby the toddler, when instructed to stand on the matting, is instructed to stand on the footprints in order to be suitably positioned with respect to the toilet.  
   
   
       16 . The method according to  claim 14 , further comprising the step of: 
 (d) replacing the liquid absorbent matting when the perceptible indication on the liquid absorbent matting indicates a urine-soiled condition.    
   
   
       17 . The method according to  claim 16 , wherein the toddler is praised when the frequency of replacing the matting is diminished with repeated use.  
   
   
       18 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the perceptible indication comprises a change in color.  
   
   
       19 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the perceptible indication comprises an olfactory indication.  
   
   
       20 . The method according to  claim 14 , further comprising the step of: 
 (d) the toddler communicating the exhibited perceptible indication on the liquid absorbent matting to at least one of the group consisting of a parent and a guardian.    
   
   
       21 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the perceptible indication on the liquid absorbent matting indicates a urine-soiled condition.  
   
   
       22 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the perceptible indication, when activated, comprises an olfactory indication.  
   
   
       23 . The method according to  claim 14 , wherein the disposable liquid-absorbent matting comprises a shape complementary to an intended area of coverage.