10 Potty Training Tips
Potty training is one of the biggest stages in a toddler’s life, and there’s tons to think about as you navigate this important transition.
Before diving in, we’d like to emphasize that every journey is unique. This is a general guide to the wonderful, weird world of potty training. We encourage you to cherry pick what works best for you.
Relax, don’t push it!
Getting things moving is the goal, right? But it’s more important to be patient in the process. Things like using their diaper less, telling you when they go pee and poo, or showing more interest in the subject are just a few signs that your toddler’s toilet time is approaching.
Ensure your little one is capable, too.
Part of the process is making sure your babe is physically able to begin training. That means pulling their own pants up and down, or being able to sit on the toilet long enough to do their business. If they’re not quite there yet, it’s ok to wait a bit until you feel more confident in their ability.
Once you start, be consistent.
Littles are looking at you to set the potty pace, so staying consistent once you start is key. If possible, get your daycare providers and family involved in your potty patterns and see if they can help maintain the same regimen. Setting potty intervals, like before naps or after snacktime, will also help baby bums get with the program.
Make it fun.
Let’s be honest, what happens in the toilet isn’t pretty. But you can at least make it fun with something everyone can enjoy, like reading books during potty time, buying special underwear, singing silly songs or implementing a sticker chart. Setting a laid back, playful pace may even spark curiosity from reluctant tots.
Let them pick their potty.
And underwear, and anything else they’ll be using once they’re in full-blown training mode. Giving them options is not only exciting, but it also gives them a sense of responsibility and “grown up” power in the process. Just make sure the potty they pick is durable and tip-resistant!
Put the potty in an obvious place.
Despite what you may think, toddler toilets don’t have to stay in the bathroom! At least while they’re getting used to it, feel free to move the potty somewhere easily accessible to them, like their room or playroom. As long as they can get to it quickly, it’s ok (and you can always move it closer to the bathroom as they progress.)
Flush when they’re away.
Did we mention this is a brand new venture? Even flushing can be scary for newbies! If you’re dealing with a timid tot, wait until they leave the bathroom to flush the toilet to avoid frightening them. Gently introduce the concept as they feel more comfortable.
Give rewards.
Your little one is tackling a big task, and it’s ok to reward them for doing so! The idea is simple: do good things, get good stuff. Special treats that they only get after using the potty or an extra sweet treat you usually limit may encourage some kids to follow the right potty behavior.
If not rewards, plenty of praise.
Treats aren’t right for everyone, so sometimes an enthusiastic “good job” is all you need. Involve praise any time something good happens, including when they show interest in learning more or trying things themselves. A positive association with all aspects of training will help keep them on track.
Don’t punish for accidents.
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: potty training is tough on toddlers. But getting upset or punishing them for not doing it right will further exacerbate the situation. Stubbornness can also mean they’re not ready, so consider taking a break until they’re ready again.
By the way, you can try using comfortable disposable training pants for them, such as ECO BOOM bamboo pants!
Help your baby gently transition into potty training. They can even pull up and down by themselves!
Designed for active baby
360° super elastic waist can provide a snug and comfortable fit.
Gently transition into potty training.
It feels like a small underwear, is easier to pull up and down by themselves.
Say goodbye to diaper rash and diaper cream.
Soft bamboo surface and super absorbent material can keep your baby dry.
