Potty Training Struggles
Potty training our two-and-a-half-year-old daughter has been quite the journey. My wife was eager to move past the diaper stage, but we soon hit a rough patch. After a promising day of success, our little one suddenly refused to use the potty—screaming every time we tried. With my wife returning to work soon and a new baby in the mix, I knew we needed a plan. Here’s what worked for us, along with a few other strategies to consider.
What Worked for Us?
One thing that really made a difference was letting our daughter pick out her own potty seat. We went online together, scrolled through a few options, and when she found one she liked, she got excited about it. That small sense of ownership helped her feel more in control, and suddenly, sitting on the potty wasn’t so scary anymore. It wasn’t an instant fix, but having her own special seat made the whole process a lot easier.
Should We Use a Reward Chart?
For some families, a reward system works wonders. You could make a simple chart and give a sticker every time your child uses the potty. After earning a certain number of stickers, they can pick a small prize—maybe something like a favorite treat or a toy they’ve been wanting. It turns potty time into something fun and gives them a goal to work toward.
Are Pull-Ups a Good Transition?
If jumping straight to underwear feels like too big of a step, pull-ups can be a helpful middle ground. They give your toddler the independence of "big kid" pants while still offering the protection of a diaper. It can be a gentler way to ease them into full potty training.
Should We Go Cold Turkey?
Some parents swear by going cold turkey. The idea is to remove all diapers and the changing table from the house and let your toddler run around in underwear for a few days. Yes, it can be messy and chaotic, but for some kids, the clear shift helps them understand what’s expected. Just remember that every child is different—what works for one might not work for another.
How Do You Teach Them to Use the Potty?
Unlike learning to walk or talk, using the toilet isn’t something kids will just figure out on their own. You may need to actively teach them what to do. Books like Oh Crap! Potty Training can offer a step-by-step approach if you’re looking for a structured guide. In our case, patience and consistency were key, along with staying calm when things didn’t go as planned.
Final Thoughts
Potty training can feel overwhelming, especially when your child resists. But it’s all about finding what works for them and sticking with it. Whether it’s letting them choose a potty seat, using rewards, or trying the cold turkey method, stay flexible and patient. You've got this!