Potty Training can be stressful. For many parents, it is a trial and error process, but we are here with 4 Steps to Simplify your Potty Training journey.
1. No Need to Rush
While there are many different theories about when and how to potty train, the trick is to wait until your child is old enough to be able to communicate with you. You can start prepping for potty training by ready and talking about it with your child and displaying the process for them. Once you notice your child communicating potty words like “pee-pee” or “potty” and can follow commands like “sit down”, that is your clue that they may be ready!
2. Proper Supplies
Potty training can be messy so make sure you are prepared with the right supplies. Also expect that when they are learning, they may pee and poop in places you wouldn’t expect. You want to also bring a change of clothes in case of an accident. Prepping in the following ways and having the following supplies may help alleviate some stress in this process and for clean up!
Systems
Put away your favorite rugs and furniture
Create a Reward System
Dress them in easy pull up and down clothing
For boys, find an aiming target (ex. cheerios)
Set a timer to help you keep track of potty times
Supplies
Activities and books to keep them busy and having fun while on the potty
Step stool and child size toilet seat
Mattress cover
3. Expect Setbacks
Once your child starts to understand the basics of potty training, you will deserve to celebrate all your hard work, and your child’s! But the next step is often forgotten or the most difficult…remain consistent and stay positive! There may be future challenges and setbacks that occur, but keep up the good work! Accidents will also happen and for some kids, they will happen for years. Don’t worry or stress, just don’t give up. Remain a positive and trusted cheerleader!
4. Expect Years to Reach Full Independence
- Stopping play to go to the bathroom
- Telling an adult when they have to go
- Wiping properly
- Finding the potty in the middle of the night
- Closing the bathroom door at home and in public restrooms
- Using different sized toliets
- Changing if they have an accident
- Holding it until they are on the potty
One of the best things you can do as a parent is prepare for the worst and shoot for the best! There can be other challenges that are unique to each child and family, and that is ok! Embrace them and push through the best you can. We wish you the best of luck on your potty training adventure!
Love,
Pin this Blog!
Any/all of the links in this email are affiliate links of which How 2 Mom, LLC receives a small commission from sales of certain items, but the price is the same for you whether it is an affiliate link or not, and using affiliate links helps us maintain our website and support our families. If you are going to purchase an item and would like to help support How 2 Mom’s mission (which we would be very grateful for!), links to many of the items we recommend can be found at our Shop page!
This blog post was put together with the help of a previous How 2 Mom Guest Blogger, Kelly Turbett.