Potty-Training Toddlers: Info Train!

Keep the Potty Train Moving!

Author

TinaMarie C.
January 02, 2025

Welcome Back to Potty-Training Toddlers – Real Tips from Real Parents Group’s Potty-Training in just 3-days newsletter! 

We left off on Day 1 starting your day and what to do if there is an accident. As we continue on we will cover handling bowel movements, nighttime training and daycare.  

 Bowel Movements 

A child recognizing that they need to have a bowel movement, or poop, is a little harder sometimes. There is a variety of methods to try based on your child’s feelings or behavior about poop.  

Bowel movements can sometimes be a challenge for young children. If your child seems afraid of using the potty for poop, try taking them into the bathroom with you. Let them observe the process and say goodbye to the waste as they flush it. 

To encourage your child to use the potty for bowel movements, consider a reward system: 

  1. Potty Chart: Create a visual chart to track progress. 

  1. Star Stickers: Each time your child successfully uses the potty for a bowel movement, reward them with a star sticker. 

  1. Special Rewards: Set a goal, such as every 5th star, to earn a special reward. This could be a small toy, a favorite activity, or extra screen time. 

By making potty training fun and rewarding, you can motivate your child to achieve their potty-training goals. 

The Magical Potty Wand 

You can make potty time more fun by introducing a "potty wand." This can be a simple stick decorated with stickers or glitter, or you can purchase a pre-made one. Explain to your child that the wand has magical powers to help them go poop without any discomfort. 

Gentle Encouragement 

If your child is resisting using the potty, don't force the issue. Instead, give them some time and space. If they start going in their underwear, gently guide them to the bathroom and help them finish on the potty. Remember to praise their efforts, even if it's a small step. 

The Role of Fiber 

To help prevent constipation, consider incorporating fiber-rich foods into your child's diet a few days before starting potty training. Remember, every child's bowel habits are different, so pay attention to your child's normal routine. 

 Naps and Potty-Training 

Naps can be a tricky part of potty training. While it's not necessary to avoid naps, it's important to stay alert during this time. Try to wake your child before their nap to use the potty, and again immediately after. 

Stick to the Plan To ensure consistency, avoid using pull-ups or diapers during this three-day period. A waterproof bed cover can be a helpful tool to protect your bedding. 

 

Bedtime Routine and Nighttime Accidents 

To minimize nighttime accidents, reduce fluid intake 2-4 hours before bedtime. Take your child to the potty twice before bed. If they don't go, try reading a book and then try again. 

If an accident occurs, stay calm and reassure your child. Remind them that it's okay to wake you up if they need to use the potty. Change the sheets and start fresh the next day. 

If your child is over 22 months old and wakes with wet diapers in the morning, you may want to try this:  

- Wake your child 1 hour after they have gone to sleep and take them to the bathroom.  

_ In the morning, wake your child 1 hour before they usually get up to take them to the bathroom.  

 

If you have older children trying using a chart for your nighttime routine.  

✔️ go pee pee 

✔️ put on pajamas  

✔️ read a book  

✔️ brush teeth 

✔️ go pee pee a second time

✔️ keep bed dry all night 

Rewarding Nighttime Success 

You can motivate your child to wake up for nighttime potty trips by promising a special reward if they stay dry all night. Remind them that it's okay to wake you up if they need to use the bathroom. 

 Consistency is Key 

To ensure successful potty training, consistency is crucial. Inconsistency will cause prolonged or delayed potty-training.  

Stay patient, positive, and dedicated throughout the process. Create a positive and supportive environment to encourage your child's progress. 

Communicating with Your Childcare Provider 

Before starting potty training, it's crucial to discuss your plan with your child's daycare provider. Explain that you'll be sending your child diaper-free and request that they maintain consistency with your approach. Gently remind them that consistency is key to successful potty training. 

Avoid Mixed Signals: To avoid setbacks, it's important to communicate your expectations to your child's daycare provider. Ask them to remain patient and understanding if your child has an accident. Their support is crucial to the success of the potty-training process. 

To minimize distractions and maximize focus during the initial stages of potty training, it's recommended to keep your child home for the first three days. This will allow them to better tune into their body's signals. 

If you're concerned about your child's daycare provider's ability to consistently support the potty-training process, you might consider using potty training inserts, or “pods”. These inserts can help alert your child to accidents, potentially prompting them to ask to use the bathroom. You can find pods here.  

If, after three days, you feel that your child hasn't fully grasped the concept of potty training, consider taking a day off from work to spend extra time with them. This extra time can help reinforce the training and provide additional support.  

Thank you for reading! In our next newsletter, we'll cover essential tips for traveling with your potty-trained child, navigating public restrooms, and addressing potential setbacks. Stay tuned!

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