Potty Training 101

When thinking of potty training, who could forget the scene from Look Who’s Talking when after a successful potty training moment, the whole family falls into a Congo line singing and dancing “a pee -pee in the pot-tay! a pee -pee in the pot-tay!” Potty training is one of the most rewarding (and testing) experiences parents go through. Some parents have even said that training a child to go to the bathroom on a toilet is one of their greatest accomplishments in life. Ok that may be taking it a step too far!  Summer time is a great time to take on a potty training project. For one, if there’s an accident outside, it’s a quick job for the garden hose and you’re on your way! Below are some of our expert tried and true techniques for getting your little one diaper free and you happy-as-can-be in no time! 

1. Try the 3-day Potty Training Method
The three-day potty training method has a big track record of success. To begin, look for signs that your little one is really ready. Are they interested in the potty? Do they go on the potty? Do they want to stop wearing diapers? If you’ve answered yes to any of these, it’s time to give it a go. Simply put your little one in underwear and throw out the diapers. Over the next few days there will be accidents and your little one will not like having them. Don’t tell your little one the accidents are okay to have. Instead use language such as, “oh no, we’ll have to try again,” or “accidents are yucky!” When your little one is successful, reward them with anything from treats, experiences, or stickers. To help you through, we’ve created this awesome potty chart to encourage your baby bee to stick with it! 

2. Get a Porta Potty 
Consider getting a to go potty for your car trips. If you’re in the process of potty training, many times little ones haven’t yet learned how to hold their business until you can get to the nearest restroom. That means when they have to go, they have to go right now! To avoid accidents on the run, pick up a porta-potty and bring with you in your car. This way you will always have an option in case of any potty emergencies.

3.  Regressions Happen
Don’t be surprised if after a month or two of potty training success, your little one has accidents. Please know this does not mean you tried to early and absolutely under no circumstances should you ever put your freshly potty trained tot back into a diaper! Lots of things can contribute to regressions, a new baby in the family, a change in schedule, a new activity. Be patient and continue using supportive language, while also being deliberate not to tell your little one that it is okay.

Potty training is tough, but with consistency we are certain your little bee will be on their way to a major undies-shopping spree.