Steps for potty training success

Potty training is the first time in your child's life that they have complete control! They will clue in if you are "desperate" to have them go in the potty. 
 

Are they ready?

 

• Your child will give you clues. Every child is different.

• Kids generally potty train anywhere between 24 months to 40 months. Don't be in a rush, it's easier to train them when they are ready.

• Clues your child is ready: They tell you they are peeing or pooping in their diaper, hide in the corner to poop, take their diaper off, become interested in your bathroom visits or complain when their diaper is dirty.

Prepare, prepare. 

 

• Talk out loud about going in the potty when you are using the bathroom.

• Read Children’s books about going to the bathroom. I love, Potty, by Leslie Patricelli.

• Buy a child’s toilet.

• Let your child choose underwear they like.

Get started

 

• Expect accidents. If you accept accidents as part of the deal, it's easier to stay calm and non emotional about it.

• Set up a reward system. What motivates your child?

• Encourage your child to sit on the potty every few hours.

• You go to the bathroom while they sit on their potty and say, "Oh listen, mommy is going pee"

Tips

• Never want your child to go in the potty, more than they want to. It will become a power struggle! If they are refusing or you find yourself begging or offering big toys for every poop. It's time to put the diaper back on and try again later.

• This is where it's good if you have not given your child lots of treats in the past. If they are not used to having candy, a jar of their favorite candy, on the back of the toilet or in plain sight, is a good motivator.

• Start by giving one m & m (their favorite treat is best!) every time they sit down to try. Three m& m's if they successfully go pee or poop.

• If they have older siblings, everyone gets a treat!

• A sticker or positive attention are also good motivators.

• You don’t have to use rewards, they just offer incentives to change behavior. Once the skill is learned it’s time to stop the reward.

• In the beginning use lots of enthusiasm when they are successful. For example, do a pee-pee dance, or FaceTime dad/grandma to share the victory!

• Get yourself prepared! Potty train on a week you can be at home with your child or if you have a nanny, get her on the same page as you.

• In the beginning, let your kiddo wear a long shirt or dress and NO pull-up, underwear or diaper while they are awake. It helps them remember to go potty.

• Avoid punishing or scolding for accidents.

• Be positive! This is a big milestone!