Potty Training Site

In one of my posts I discuss the Top Ten reasons for potty training. After receiving many questions regarding how and when to potty train, I want to share with parents what IS important during the potty training process.

1.Dedicate- It is so much easier to focus on one thing, especially potty training. If you have other children, have your partner help watch them to avoid distractions or hire a babysitter.

2.Consistency- Create a schedule and stick to it. Start out small and gradually add to the schedule. The more consistent you are with potty training the more likely you will attain faster success.

3.Stability- Switching from diapers/pull ups to underwear or panties can be a challenge for some children. Straddling the fence so to speak can lead to confusion. Once you transition from underwear or panties stay with it.

4.Listen- Stop and listen to your child. Are they really ready for potty training? Some children will give some resistance to potty training. If your child is staying dry, pulling diapers off or wanting to be changed, it’s time to begin.

5.Patience- From age 3 to 6 development is extremely critical. Potty training is a part of your child’s developmental milestones to be achieved. Parents are the teachers and what you teach your child does become programmed into their brain.

6.Positive Attitude- Are you upbeat about potty training? Handling challenges including accidents can push a parent to their limits. Find ways to cope with the challenges including stepping away for a break if you are not ready.

7.Praise- Whatever your child does including having accidents, always, always, always praise them for their efforts. Add a hug to the praising letting them know it’s okay.

8.Reward- Successful potty attempts or not, give your child praises & rewards. Double the reward for successful attempts. What does your child enjoy receiving? Do they like popsicles in the summer, cookies, lollipops, stickers?

9.Make it Fun!- Some parents have mentioned cherrios in the potty for boys to aim at or targets. Put the potty in front of the tv while watching a movie, if you have some privacy in your backyard allow your son to pee out there. Take a little food coloring and add it to the potty after every cleaning. Then they can guess what color it’ll be if they go!

10.One on One Time-I always mention to parents that this is a wonderful opportunity to bond with their child. Dedicate the time to be with your child, learn more about them, help them with this big transition from wearing diapers/pull ups to underwear or panties.