28 Potty Training Tips for Toddlers

28 Potty Training Tips for Toddlers

Potty training is a big step for both toddlers and us parents. Here are 28 handy tips to make it easier and more successful:

1. Potty training doesn’t have a set age—some kids are ready at 18 months, others later. The trick is to watch for readiness signs, like staying dry longer, showing interest in the bathroom, or disliking wet diapers. These clues can guide you on when to start.

• Kick off the journey by taking your little one potty shopping! Let them pick a colorful potty chair or a fun toilet seat. This not only makes it exciting but also involves them in the process.

• Start with pull-ups—they’re easy for your toddler to pull down and great for catching those inevitable oops moments. When they gain more confidence, they switch to cotton training pants. These help your kid feel a bit wet if they have an accident, encouraging them to use the potty next time.

• Create a potty routine by taking them to the bathroom after meals and before bedtime. Also, remind them to try going every couple of hours. A regular schedule like this can smooth out the potty training process and help you both work together toward dry days.

• Always cheer them on, even if things don’t go perfectly. Loads of praise can boost their confidence and motivate them to keep trying.

• Let your toddler see Mom, Dad, or other family members using the toilet. It shows them that using the potty is normal, and watching you might spark their interest.
• Use simple words like “pee,” “poop,” and “flush” so your toddler knows exactly what’s happening. This clarity helps them understand the process better and keeps everything less stressful.

• If the toilet’s flushing sound scares your little one, hold off on flushing right away. Give them time to get used to the idea. Later, you can make flushing fun by calling it the magic button! This makes it less intimidating and more exciting.

• Get some underwear with their favorite characters on it and tell them they can wear these special underpants once they consistently use the potty. Be ready for a few accidents—it’s all part of the process!

1. Consider placing the potty in an easy-to-reach spot. Starting with it in the living room or wherever they spend most of their time is OK. It can make the process seem more manageable at first. My little one started with her potty in the living room, too! We returned it to the bathroom once she got the hang of it. Just make sure it’s always easy for them to give it a go.

1. Choose clothes your little one can easily pull down, like pants with elastic waistbands or stretchy materials. Dresses are also a good option. This helps speed up those trips to the potty and builds your child’s confidence as they learn to go independently.

1. Keep an eye out for the potty dance—when your kid starts squirming, touching their bottom, or holding themselves, that’s your cue to whisk them off to the potty quickly! Catching these signs early helps prevent accidents and helps them get the hang of using the potty regularly.

1. Turn potty time into a party! Pick out some fun books, sing your favorite songs, or play little games while they’re on the potty. Making it playful helps ease nerves and transforms it into a fun activity they’ll look forward to.

1. Put up a bright sticker chart in the bathroom or by the potty. Every time your child successfully goes to the potty, let them pick a sticker to put on the chart. They’ll love watching their sticker collection grow, and it’s a fun way to celebrate each potty win. This adds a bit of excitement and encouragement to every step they take.

1. Stay calm and give your child a comforting hug or a gentle smile if there’s a little accident. Remind them that accidents are just part of learning how to use the potty. You can tell them, “It’s OK, honey. We’ll try again next time.” This support boosts their morale and helps ensure they don’t feel too down.

1. When they use the potty, teach them to wipe front to back. After, it’s handwashing time! Make it fun with a song. Let them know why—keeps germs away, like superpowers.

1. Throw a little celebration every time your kid uses the potty. Cheer them on, tell them how great they’re doing and how proud you are. Applaud, shout “Yay!” and share lots of high-fives. If their potty has fun features, like a cool flush handle, include that too. Flushing together can be an exciting game! This will make them feel like superstars and motivate them to keep at it.

1. Let your toddler have some time without a diaper while at home. Many parents find this technique helpful for potty training. Without a diaper, your child might become more conscious of the need to use the potty rather than just going anywhere. It’s a great strategy to try during warmer weather—just be prepared for a few little accidents. While it may not be effective for every child, it’s worth trying.
2. When your child is doing well with potty training during the day, you can start working at night. Use waterproof mattress covers to dry the bed, and reduce evening drinks to lessen nighttime accidents. It’s common for accidents to happen at night, so keep your spirits up and the atmosphere light when they do. Patience is essential—your little one will get there with nighttime training when they’re ready.

• When you’re out and about with your little one, having a travel potty in the car is a lifesaver. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the locations of bathrooms wherever you go so you’re prepared for those just-in-case moments. Packing extra clothes is essential, too. 

• Set a good example by having your little one to join you when you use the bathroom. Moms can guide their daughters, and dads can guide their sons, but any family member can lead the way. Choose what feels right and works best for your family.

• The potty train can be a breeze if you keep it relaxed and fun. Some days will be smooth sailing, while others might need more patience—that’s how it goes. If things get tough, take a break and try a different approach. Remember, every kid learns at their own pace, so stay calm—they’ll get it when they’re ready.

• Each kid is different. So, if they’re not feeling the potty yet, no sweat! Take a break and come back to it later. Ask them gently if they’re ready to give it a shot or if they’re cool with diapers a bit longer. Keep it positive and pressure-free, OK? Encourage them and let them know we’re here to help whenever they’re ready.

• Making the big toilet less scary is critical. Pop a child-sized seat on top, or go back to the small potty if they’re unsure. Remind them it is what big kids do, and they’ll get there too! A step stool helps them feel safe and in control. Let them pick the toilet or potty daily—it boosts their confidence.

• If pooping worries them, keep it light. Snuggle up with a fun book or watch a silly potty video. Show them it’s no big deal. You don’t want your little one holding it in because that can lead to constipation, and nobody wants that, right?

• When teaching boys, start with sitting down—it’s easier. Once they’ve got it, show them how to stand. Take it one step at a time!

• Turning standing peeing into a game is a hit! Drop paper boats in the toilet and aim to sink them. Fun and practice all in one!

• And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your pediatrician. They’ve got tips to help smooth things out. Asking for help is excellent—it’s all about what’s best for our kiddos.