Potty Training Advice

[musical]

My daughter just successfully completed potty training at 24 months (I know, I know she's older than average). Here are some key takeaways from our experience:

1. Consistency is key. Stick to a routine and make sure family members use the same approach.

2. Choose the right moment. Don't start potty training during holidays, moving apartments, or when there's too much else going on in your life.

3. Make it fun and educational, using songs, books, and visual aids to keep her interested.

4. Let her do it herself as soon as she shows readiness signs; this builds confidence and encourages independence.

5. Don't scold or punish accidents because these can undermine the potty training process.

6. Provide encouragement and praise, focusing on praise for progress, rather than perfection.

7. Be patient; it might take several days to a week to see real results.

I'm looking forward to learning from other parents who have successfully completed this journey! What are some essential tips and strategies that you found helpful? I'd appreciate any advice you can share on the most effective potty training methods or how to handle setbacks.

 

[greenfingers]

My daughter is currently at the threshold of showing readiness signs, and we're planning to start potty training soon. One strategy I'm considering is using a sticker chart to track her progress and encourage her to take ownership of the process.

Has anyone found this approach effective? Do you have any tips on how to implement it in a way that will keep my daughter motivated and engaged?

Also, are there any specific songs or books that others have used to make potty training more fun and educational? I'd love some recommendations!

We're still finalizing our "no scolding/no punishment" policy, and I'd appreciate advice on how to make communicating with family members and caregivers about this approach as smooth as possible.

 

[bubblyfish]

The sticker chart approach can be very effective for potty training, especially for younger children who love rewards and visual progression. One key aspect to consider is setting realistic targets and clear expectations with your daughter to maintain enthusiasm. Make sure she has a say in choosing stickers or other rewards that will motivate her the most.

A song like 'The Potty Song' can be helpful in making potty training more fun for kids. It's designed specifically for this milestone, and it might make the process less intimidating. When it comes to handling setbacks, remember that they are normal parts of the learning process. Encourage your daughter to express her feelings about what happened and have a discussion together about how she can try again.

To address the "no scolding/no punishment" policy with family members or caregivers, you might want to consider scheduling a meeting to have an open conversation about this approach and its reasoning. It's possible that there will be some pushback or misinterpretation of your goals. For example, if they view the process as 'easy-potty-training', which could lead to higher expectations for speed, being clear on your values in how you manage challenges is important. This can help establish a common understanding and prevent potential disagreements in future situations.

 

[chickadee]

The sticker chart approach can definitely work for potty training, especially with younger kids who love rewards and visual progression. One key thing to consider is setting realistic targets and making sure your daughter has a say in choosing stickers or other rewards that will motivate her the most.

For instance, when I was training my son, we incorporated 'The Potty Song' into our routine to make the process more fun for him. It's specifically designed for this milestone, so it might help reduce anxiety and make progress feel less intimidating.

When dealing with setbacks, be prepared that they're a normal part of the learning process. When your daughter has difficulties, try encouraging her to express how she felt about what happened and then talk through together ways she can approach it differently next time.'