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7 Tried and True Potty Training Tips

FREEDOM! In one word, that’s what all the effort and messes of potty training lead to. Freedom from carrying diapers and wipes, freedom from having to spend so much money on diapers, and freedom from changing tables and awkward spaces with a stinky, squirming toddler. Potty training also builds confidence for your little one, affirming for her that she is, in fact, a “big kid!”

There are many philosophies on how and when to ditch diapers, but these are 7 of our go-to potty training tips. If you and your little one are ready to take the plunge (ew), remember, it’s worth the hard work you’re gonna put in!

1. Assess readiness.

Many children are near age 2 before they have the physiological, cognitive, and motor skills readiness needed to be potty trained—and it really takes all three. Just because your child is able to physically control her need to go doesn’t mean she has the self-control to wait until she reaches the potty, or the motor skills to handle her clothing. Whatever her age, look for signs that your child might be ready, like making certain facial expressions or squatting when wetting a diaper or hiding when having a bowel movement.

2. Develop a plan and be consistent.

There are so many potty training plans. Your mom tells you what worked when you were 3. Your best friend trained her toddler in three days and is ready to pass down her wisdom. Consider your child and your lifestyle, pick a plan, and maintain consistency day in and day out so your child understands the rules and expectations. Make sure other caregivers, like daycare providers and grandparents, are committed to the plan as well. One of the best potty training tips is to make it a good experience for your little one. A confused child isn’t set up for success.

3. Kindly remind.

It’s easy for toddlers to become so focused on what they’re doing—watching a cartoon, coloring in a coloring book, playing with trains—that they forget to listen to the signals their bladders are giving them. Try using a timer and heading to the potty every 20 minutes. It’s not cheating or taking a shortcut to give constant reminders. Potty training is new to your toddler, and he needs to know you’re in his corner, helping him succeed.

4. Praise successes!

Nothing reinforces good behavior like praise. Aside from verbal praise, you might even incorporate a small reward, like a sticker, an M&M, or a dollar store toy for successful trips to the potty. After the first few days of dry underwear, you’ll be tempted to celebrate less, but keep up the cheers. Your child might not be as excited to go in the toilet once the newness wears off, so it’s on you to help him stay the course.

5. Don’t compare.

Some kids potty train better with a different method or on a different timetable than their friends or siblings. Don’t worry if one child doesn’t follow the exact same script that worked with another child, especially if you’re comparing boys to girls. There are multiple ways to accomplish the goal. Keep this in mind if you have a neurodivergent child. Like other developmental milestones, your child will get there when he gets there!

6. Rethink training pants.

Pull-on training underwear may seem like a great alternative when you’re out and about with a toddler-in-training, but they can actually hinder the process of full potty training. Unlike traditional cotton training pants, which are clammy and uncomfortable when wet, disposable training pants pull the wetness away from the skin, removing a key incentive to run to the potty instead. When you’re away from home, bring an extra outfit or two and take frequent trips to the bathroom. An accident is inconvenient, but it’s not the end of the world.

7. Make the bathroom more fun.

If your child is the type to resist sitting still long enough to use the potty, try keeping a few picture books in the bathroom to help her be content on her little throne long enough for nature to take its course. My son and I watched episodes of “Curious George,” and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to disassociate that little monkey from the process during which he entertained us. Poor George.

Bonus Potty Training Tip: If you start the process and it becomes so stressful that it’s causing lots of tears from your toddler or yelling from you, it’s completely OK to table it and try again in a few months. No one’s judging you, and if they are, they’re welcome to come do the potty training for you!

What’s the best potty training tip you’ve heard?

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