Potty Training

Is your child showing signs of readiness for potty training? Here are a few things you will need to make this milestone enjoyable for you and your toddler.


1. Potty seat- There are several different types of potty seats on the market. Some parents like the one piece model where your child has their own potty and they remove the plastic catcher to discard the waste. Others prefer the potty seat that attaches to the toilet seat providing a secure feeling while using the “big potty”. When choosing your potty seat consider the following: Cost, cleanliness, easy care and storage.

2. Step Stool- This is important for little ones who will need to access the toilet by themselves. Also, while children are training they like to rest there feet on the stool and it gives them a sense of security. When purchasing a stool make sure it is sturdy and has a no skid bottom.

3. Training pants- They come in disposable and cloth depending on which one you prefer. Make sure your toddler can pull them up and down easily so they can go to the potty on their own. Training pants leave your child feeling wet and this discomfort encourages your child to use the potty, just be sure to have them change them if they have an accident so not to get a rash.

4. Mattress protection- At first when potty training your child may do well during the day but during sleep it may be hard to wake up to go to the potty. Mattress pads help protect the mattress from becoming soiled. Make sure it is waterproof and fleece topped this helps with the plastic sound.

5. Training targets- Are great for little boys; they come in all kinds of styles from circle targets to fish which encourages them to hit the bull’s-eye!

6. Books and Videos- There are several different books for both parents and children to encourage a positive potty training experience. Here are a few videos and books I recommend:

• Its Potty Time a duck family series on DVD- Great for kids with catchy songs, worked for us!

• Everyone Poops, written by Taro Gomi – This book is well done and shows how all kinds of animals poop and why.

• The potty Book for Boys, written by Alyssa Satin Capucilli- This book has great illustrations and really encourages little boys to graduate from diapers and start using the potty.

7. Incentives- Consider giving incentives which will encourage and provide positive reinforcement. Get a plastic storage bin and fill it with party favor items; toy cars, sunglasses, tattoo’s, bouncy balls and other items your child likes. Each time your child has success allow them to pick from the incentive box. As your child improves encourage longer times between incentives and when your incentives run out Graduation!

Remember your child and you will know when the right time to potty train is. Have patience and provide encouragement, success will happen. Good Luck!