Potty training is a major milestone for both parents and children, and while it may seem like a daunting task, thorough preparation can make the process much smoother and less stressful. Before diving in, there are several important things you can do to set yourself and your child up for success. In this blog, we’ll cover the six essential things to do before you start potty training, along with tips and strategies that will make this transition as smooth as possible for both you and your little one.
#1 - Consult With Your Child’s School
If your child is already in daycare, preschool, or will soon start school, it’s important to touch base with the school staff before you begin potty training. Every school or daycare has its own approach and schedule for potty training, and aligning your efforts with theirs will help provide consistency for your child.
By talking with teachers or caregivers, you can find out when potty breaks typically happen, how the staff handles potty training, and what expectations they have for children in their care. Understanding their schedule will allow you to mirror the same routine at home, which can help prevent confusion for your child.
Additionally, having a conversation with your child’s school shows that you are a proactive parent who is invested in your child’s development and well-being. This collaborative approach helps establish a strong partnership between you and the school, ultimately making potty training easier and more consistent.
#2 - Gather Your Potty Training Materials
Before starting potty training, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Having everything ready in advance will save you time and stress when you’re in the middle of the process. The following items will be critical for a successful potty training experience:
- Potty seat or potty chair: Choose a potty seat that fits your child comfortably. Some children prefer potty chairs, while others may feel more comfortable using a potty seat on the regular toilet.
- Training underwear or pull-ups: Training underwear can help your child transition from diapers to underwear, while pull-ups may be helpful for overnight potty training.
- Wipes and cleaning supplies: You’ll need wipes for quick cleanups and surface cleaners for any accidents.
Books and videos: Engaging your child with potty training books, songs, or videos can make the process more enjoyable. Children love learning through stories and catchy songs, so these materials can encourage a positive attitude toward potty training. - Personalized Potty Training Charts:
Consider purchasing these items ahead of time, so they are ready when you decide to start the process. Having a dedicated “potty training kit” can help streamline the process.
#3: Consider a Personalized Potty Training Charts
You’ve probably heard of Potty Training Charts, but imagine one customized for your little one-complete with their picture, name, and favorite theme! (think Paw Patrol Potty Chart, Frozen Potty Chart, Bluey Potty Chart, or whatever they love most!).
Personalized items make potty training even more exciting and motivating-and we create them just for parents like you!
Click below to find a Custom Potty Chart that celebrates your child’s unique personality!
#4 - Think Through the Details
When it comes to potty training, planning ahead is crucial. The more thought you give to the details before you begin, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter. Here are some aspects to consider:
- When to start: You’ll want to decide when to begin potty training, as timing can make a big difference in success. Are you going to do a potty training boot camp or take a more gradual approach? Discuss this with your partner and think about your family’s schedule to pick a time that works best for everyone.
- Boy or girl: For boys, you’ll need to decide whether to teach them to sit or stand. Most parents start by teaching boys to sit, but some may prefer to teach standing up from the beginning.
- Targets for boys: If you have a boy, you may want to consider using potty training targets to make the process more fun. Small floating targets can be placed in the toilet to encourage aiming.
- Books and videos: As mentioned earlier, choosing the right books and videos is important. Look for potty training resources that match your child’s interests. Children love watching videos that teach through songs and characters they recognize.
Planning all of these details in advance will help ensure that you’re ready to go when it’s time to start.
#5- Get Your Schedule Together
One of the most important things to plan for is your potty training schedule. Consistency is key when potty training, so you’ll need to decide when to focus on this process and how to structure your day. There are two main approaches to potty training:
- Intensive potty training (Potty training boot camp): This approach involves dedicating a few days (usually 3-5 days) to staying home with your child, focusing exclusively on potty training. During this time, you’ll focus on teaching your child how to use the potty, taking them to the bathroom regularly, and offering praise for successes.
- Gradual potty training: If you prefer a more laid-back approach, you can ease your child into potty training over time. Start by encouraging your child to use the potty during the day, and gradually increase the frequency.
#6 - Figure out childcare support
Potty training can be exhausting, and having backup childcare or support can make all the difference. Some parents choose to enlist the help of a grandparent, friend, or babysitter to provide support during the potty training process. Having an extra set of hands can give you the break you need to recharge and avoid burnout.
It’s also important to make sure your partner is on the same page and is prepared to pitch in when needed. Even if they can’t be around all the time, having them offer support on weekends or evenings will help alleviate some of the pressure.
Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks for yourself. Potty training can be stressful, so it’s crucial to maintain your own well-being throughout the process. Scheduling short breaks will help you stay calm and positive, which will have a significant impact on your child’s potty training experience.
#7 - Make sure your child is ready
One of the most critical aspects of potty training is ensuring that your child is truly ready for the process. While it’s tempting to start potty training early, waiting until your child shows signs of readiness can make the entire process easier.
Look for the following signs that your child may be ready to begin potty training:
- Staying dry for longer periods (2 hours or more)
- Showing interest in using the toilet or imitating adults or siblings
- Expressing discomfort with dirty diapers
- Being able to follow simple instructions and communicate when they need to go potty
If you notice these signs, it’s a good time to consult with your child’s pediatrician to ensure there are no underlying health concerns that could make potty training more difficult, such as constipation or other medical issues.
#8 - Make sure your child is motivated
Motivation plays a significant role in potty training success. Ideally, your child will be intrinsically motivated to use the potty, but in cases where this isn’t the case, you may need to provide extrinsic motivation.
This can include offering rewards, praise, or fun incentives like stickers or treats.
The key is to find what motivates your child and use that to encourage progress. Keep in mind that each child is different, so what works for one child might not work for another. If you’re unsure about how to motivate your child, consult with a behavior analyst or parenting expert to get personalized advice.
Bringing it all together
Potty training is the process of teaching a child how to use the toilet for urination and defecation. It’s an essential life skill that fosters a child’s independence and confidence. Potty training also allows children to transition from diapers to underwear, which can help with their physical comfort and self-esteem.
Your child may be ready to start potty training if they exhibit the following signs:
- Staying dry for longer periods (2–3 hours)
- Showing interest in bathroom habits
- Understanding simple instructions, like “sit on the potty”
- Expressing discomfort with wet or soiled diapers
- Wanting more independence
Most children show readiness between 18 months and 3 years of age, though this varies.
Consistency is key. Establish a routine by scheduling regular potty breaks, such as after meals, naps, or before bed. Use tools like potty charts to visually track successes and keep your child motivated. Praise their efforts and maintain a patient, positive attitude to encourage progress.
Common challenges include:
- Toilet refusal: If your child is afraid of the potty, start by allowing them to sit on it fully clothed to build comfort.
- Accidents: Treat accidents as learning opportunities rather than mistakes, and avoid punishment.
- Nighttime training: Night dryness takes longer to develop. Use waterproof bedding and be prepared for occasional bed-wetting.
If resistance persists, consult a pediatrician or behavior analyst for guidance.
The choice depends on your child’s comfort and preferences:
- Standalone potty: Great for younger children, as they are child-sized and portable.
- Toilet seat attachment: Suitable for older toddlers ready to transition to an adult toilet.
- Travel potty: Ideal for on-the-go families.
Ensure the potty is easy to clean, stable, and engaging for your child, with features like fun designs or flushing sounds.
Have Questions?
We discussed a lot in this blog and I know there’s so many things to consider before potty training. If you need individual support, I’d love to help!
Hi! I'm a Family Alignment Coach with 24+ years of experience guiding parents through the challenges and joys of raising children. I combine my experience in behavior analysis, education and meditation to create personalized parenting plans that help families connect, communicate more effectively and co-create a life they love. When I'm not supporting families, you'll find me hiking, camping, meditating, or practicing yoga at my local studio in Encinitas, California.
