Don’t Fear the Potty…Training, that is

Potty Training. No two words can strike fear in the heart of a parent or guardian faster. Not only is potty training necessary for a toddler’s development, it’s also a rite of passage.

Preparing for potty training is just as important as the actual method. So, where do you start? As with anything in your child’s life, it’s a good idea to make sure they are receptive to it. But, how do you know they are? Here are some signs to look for:

• Is your child suddenly interested in the bathroom and/or toilet?
• Are they wanting their diaper to be changed immediately after peeing or pooping?
• Does your toddler tell you when they have to go, or have gone?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you might be in potty training territory. Just be aware that your child’s comfort level may change from time to time, and it’s your job to change lanes accordingly.

Now that they are ready, how can you be ready? No two children are going to respond the same, but there are some tips and tricks that have been proven successful:

• Be patient. Potty training on average can take 3 to 6 months, but don’t freak out if it takes longer. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Every child is different, so try not to get caught up in how long you think (or heard) it should take.
• Don’t ask, assume. Asking “Do you have to use the potty?” will surely result in a “no” answer. It’s recommended that you visit the bathroom with your toddler every 10 to 20 minutes whether they say they need to go or not.
• Set a consistent schedule and routine. Whatever you decide, stick with it. No. Matter. Where. You. Are. Daycare? Get your providers on board with your timetable. Spending time with a sitter or family? Make sure everyone knows what your goals are. Out for the day? Stock up on accident supplies like extra underwear, bring any of the tools (toys, books) and rewards that you have been using at home. Consistency is key.
• Focus, focus, focus. Keep your attention on your child. This is not the moment to “set it and forget it.” Stay in the bathroom with them (no matter how long it takes) until the deed is done.

Your undivided attention signals to your child that this is important, and that you two are in this together.

• Make it fun. Color, read, play games, or whatever works to keep your child in the bathroom, on the potty, and ready to go (pun intended).
• Make cleanup a party. Part of the potty-training process is also teaching your children about good hygiene. Since the pandemic a lot of children have learned good handwashing techniques, or at the very least understand the necessity of a lot of hand sanitizer baths. Now is the time to take it up a notch. Try brightly colored. scented soaps, and a stool to bring them close to the sink and faucet to make the process easy and entertaining. Try building a repertoire of potty-training tunes to sing while your toddler washes up. Google at your own risk however, some of those songs are earworms!
• Keep their eyes on the prize…with a prize. But be careful with the sugary treats. Rewarding your toddler for a successful “go” is a great tip but developing a sugar addiction may not be. If treats aren’t your thing try little dollar store goodies like toys, art supplies, or books to say “way to go” after a productive trip to the bathroom.
• Celebrate successes in other ways. Are you crafty? Create a potty chart that measures their progress. It’s like a growth chart for poop! Or create a cool sticker that they can wear to announce their potty-training prowess.

When it comes to this important milestone, it’s easy to be focused on the destination. Just remember that the journey of potty training doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Keep it fun, follow your child’s lead, and be prepared to adapt. Pretty soon those diapers will be a thing of the past! If only we could say that about those songs…