Potty Training 101: When, How, and Tips for Success

Hello, fabulous readers! It’s time to tackle one of the biggest milestones in toddlerhood: potty training. Whether the idea of ditching diapers fills you with excitement or dread (or a little of both), fear not! With some expert-backed strategies, a dash of patience, and a sprinkle of humor, potty training can be a rewarding (and eventually, less messy) experience.

Let’s dive into the whens, hows, and what-now’s of potty training, with a few guncle-approved tips along the way.

When to Start Potty Training

Timing is everything when it comes to potty training. Experts, including those at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend starting when your child shows readiness signs—this typically happens between 18 months and 3 years. Keep in mind, every child is different, so there’s no magic age to begin.

Signs Your Child Might Be Ready:

• They stay dry for longer periods or wake up dry from naps.

• They can communicate when they need to go (through words, gestures, or that unmistakable “poop face”).

• They show an interest in the potty or start imitating bathroom behaviors.

• They can follow simple instructions, like “sit down” or “pull up your pants.”

• They dislike being in a wet or dirty diaper and might ask for a change.

If your child isn’t showing these signs yet, don’t sweat it—forcing the issue can backfire. As Dr. Tovah Klein, author of How Toddlers Thrive, says, “The more pressure they feel, the less likely they’ll cooperate.”

How to Start Potty Training

Once your little one shows signs of readiness, it’s time to gear up for the adventure! Here’s how to set the stage:

1. Pick the Right Equipment

Choose a potty chair or a toddler-sized toilet seat that feels comfortable for your child. Let them help pick it out—they’re more likely to be excited about something they helped choose.

2. Introduce the Idea

Start talking about the potty in a positive, matter-of-fact way. Read potty-themed books (like “Everybody Poops” or “Potty” by Leslie Patricelli) and let them see you using the bathroom to demystify the process.

3. Create a Routine

Begin by having your child sit on the potty at regular times, like after waking up, after meals, or before bedtime. At first, they might not do anything, and that’s okay. The goal is to make them comfortable with the idea.

4. Ditch the Diapers (When You’re Ready)

When you’re ready to take the plunge, transition to training pants or regular underwear. Yes, there will be accidents, but feeling wet or uncomfortable is part of the learning process. As Dr. Mark Wolraich, a leading pediatrician, explains, “Children learn best through natural consequences.”

5. Celebrate Success

Every time your child uses the potty successfully, celebrate! Stickers, a potty chart, or even a little happy dance can make a big difference. Positive reinforcement goes a long way.

Tips for Success

1. Be Patient

Potty training is a process, not a sprint. It can take weeks (or months) for your child to fully master it, and that’s completely normal.

2. Avoid Punishment

Accidents happen—it’s all part of the journey. Stay calm and avoid shaming or punishing your child, as it can create anxiety around potty training. Instead, offer gentle reminders and reassurance.

3. Use Praise Strategically

Focus on effort rather than results. For example, “You did a great job sitting on the potty!” even if they didn’t actually go. This encourages them to keep trying.

4. Plan for Public Potty Use

Once they’ve mastered potty training at home, practice using public restrooms. Bring a portable potty seat or liner for comfort, and always pack extra clothes (because, well, toddlers).

5. Keep a Sense of Humor

Potty training will test your patience, but it will also give you some hilarious stories. (Like the time Franky decided the potty was better suited for storing toys. Thanks, buddy.)

A General Timeline for Potty Training

Stage 1: Introducing the Potty

• Age: Around 18–24 months (or later if your child isn’t ready yet).

• Focus: Familiarity. Sit on the potty with clothes on, read books about it, and talk about what it’s for.

Stage 2: Starting Training

• Age: Typically 2–3 years old.

• Focus: Regular potty breaks, transitioning out of diapers, and reinforcing success with praise.

Stage 3: Building Consistency

• Age: 2.5–4 years old.

• Focus: Fewer accidents, dry nights, and more independence in using the potty.

Final Thoughts: Potty Training Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Remember, potty training isn’t just about ditching diapers—it’s a milestone in your child’s development, and it requires patience, encouragement, and a sense of humor. Celebrate the small victories, embrace the occasional setback, and know that every child gets there eventually (even if it feels like you’ll be buying diapers forever).

And if all else fails, just remember this: your toddler probably won’t be wearing pull-ups to college.

Until next time, keep calm and potty on!

Cheers,