Let's Talk About Potty Training

If your story is anything like mine, potty training has been more than a struggle. Thus far, it has been the most challenging skill to teach my children. I have tried several methods in order to find one that worked well for me and my children. It’s been tough. From cleaning up accidents, to being actively aware of my child so I don’t miss the potty dance, to getting them to the potty in time, it’s exhausting! Then you finally make it to the potty and the waiting game begins. When it was time to sit on the potty, my children would become anxious, wanting to get up or were bored from sitting for thirty seconds. So, I began thinking of things to do with them while they passed the time.

Short Lesson

Remember that my background is in education, so figuring out ways to incorporate a lesson is in my blood. On my phone, I have an app that goes through all the alphabet. So, as my child is sitting on the potty, we go through alphabet recognition and alphabet sounds. It takes about a minute. This activity has been fun and distracts my child from thinking about using the potty.

Read a Book

This has become one of my personal favorite potty activities to do with my children. I try to incorporate reading into our day anyway, so why not while they are on the potty. Again, you want to choose a short story. One of our favorites is “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” You could even use an app on your phone to have them listen to a story. For example, sometimes I use the Bible app for kids. They have really short, illustrative stories for children.

Pretend Play

My daughter is at the age where she takes her stuffed Minnie Mouse everywhere, including the bathroom. So, we pretend that Minnie is using the potty also. My daughter puts a step stool next to her potty and teaches Minnie how to potty. Shortly after, she is using the potty too!

Encouragement

There is no way around potty training. Research the potty tool that will best fit your needs and get started! It’s not the most fun activity but it doesn't have to be dreadful. With a little bit of preparation, it can turn into a joyful experience and bonding moments for you and your child. Hang in there mommas, and remember YOU GOT THIS!