Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Potty Training in Under 100 Words

As soon as possible put your child in underwear; regularly take them to the restroom. If you can take your child to the restroom every 90 minutes, accidents are less likely to happen. Talk to your child frequently about the feeling of needing to use the restroom. Rewarding your child for using the toilet is eminent, the more excited you are, they more excited they will be. Your child will grasp the concept if you continuously remind them, it is your job as a parent to do the reminding. 

I promise you, it is this easy. If you are not consistent, they will consistently have accidents. 


Reminders
-NEVER compare your child’s potty training to another child’s. You know this though, you would never compare your child to another.. right?

-Try to ALWAYS refrain from food treats as a reward. Even though we as adults would do anything for a cupcake, using food treats as a reward may set up a confusing relationship with foods in the coming years.

-Once your start, don’t stop. Have your child pick out the underwear, make it a special trip. Remind them about their special underwear and how they do not want to get them wet. Who the heck wants to pee on The Hulk?

-When accidents happen try to refrain from using phrases such as, "you shouldn’t be having accidents", Because uhh... yes they should.

-Talking with your child about the feelings helps them recognize their ability to chose to have an accident or not. Do not expect them to understand potty training with out understanding they are in control of their body, 

-Every 90 mintues, are you crazy? How will I ever remember??? THE POTTY WATCH


If you’re wondering if your child is ready, the answer is yes.
The real question is are YOU are ready.
Transitioning from diapers to pull-ups to underwear can be an arduous unnecessary process.
Before Underwear
Make bathroom trips regular, if you child stays at home with you, the process is easier than if in care.

Every time you go to the restroom, take your child. You go, then have them go. Either in their own potty, or I recommend installing a child’s seat in the toilet most used by the child. Converse with your child on how important it is to use the toilet, help them recognize the feeling felt when you need to go.