Transform Your Child’s Potty Training Journey with Essential Tips and Must-Have Gear

During our holiday break, my husband and I decided to take on the monumental task of potty training our son. We humorously dubbed it “Holiday Hell Week.” We’d been observing signs that our son was ready, like improved communication skills, his curious glances at the toilet, and his telling us when he had soiled his diaper. So, it seemed only fitting that we tackle this endeavor during our time off. However, if I’m honest, the week turned out more chaotic than restful.

I’m the kind of mom who strives for meticulous preparation—think lists, resources, and courses. I signed up for a potty training course, combed through countless articles, and stocked up on all the essentials. I knew that our spirited little guy would need ample support and understanding as he embarked on this journey, especially given how he typically reacts to changes in routine. Although I expected some pushback, nothing could have prepared me for the sheer determination he displayed against any semblance of control over this process. Let’s just say it was quite a revelation.

Now that I’ve navigated this adventurous period, I have gained invaluable insights to share about preparing for potty training. Here are my indispensable tips and product recommendations to ease the way.

**Stock Up on Training Undies**

Even if your strategy is to embrace the naked method initially, it’s unrealistic to think your child will be going commando indefinitely (though it might feel like it at times!). It’s wise to invest in several packs of training undies, like Pampers Easy Ups, to help transition into this new phase with as much grace as possible. They’re not just a daytime necessity; they can also be a lifesaver for nighttime accidents. Once your child is confidently using the potty during the day, you can shift focus to nighttime training, making Easy Ups the perfect go-between.

My kids can’t get enough of Easy Ups because they are super soft and comfy. I also love that they are more budget-friendly compared to some other brands we’ve tried. Training pants can sometimes feel too much like diapers, which can frustrate both you and your child; however, Easy Ups mimic the feel of real underwear, thanks to their cotton-like texture. With dual leak-guard barriers and maximum leakproof protection, they’re fantastic for overnight use or when you’re out and about. The stretchy waistband provides 360-degree elasticity, allowing kids to pull them up and down—this is key for those urgent potty needs! And on those days when accidents do happen, the easy-tear sides save the day by allowing for swift cleanup.

With adorable designs featuring our favorite characters, these training undies bring an element of fun to what can otherwise be a stressful transition. Introducing Easy Ups before diving into the training process can really help ease this significant change for your child.

Find The Right Potty

Choosing the right potty plays a crucial role in your potty training success. Given the array of styles and features available, picking one that meets your child’s preferences and your training style is essential. If you’re leaning toward a more relaxed cost-free strategy, a lightweight, portable potty is a practical choice, ensuring you can quickly rush it around the house to minimize accidents. Conversely, if you favor a slow integration approach, a seat that attaches to your regular toilet might suit you better. For the adventurous parent, themed potties can ignite curiosity and excitement, making your little one more eager to explore this new skill.

Make Potty Time Fun

Once you’ve got the potty situation squared away, consider assembling a “potty basket” filled with engaging toys. Keeping toddlers entertained while sitting on the potty is critical since their attention spans are often short. Selecting items that are safe and easy to handle will help avoid accidents while ensuring they stay focused and happy.

Read Potty-Themed Books

We embraced the power of storytelling early on and began introducing potty-themed books as soon as our son turned two. Adding a few more right before starting the training phase proved to be helpful in demystifying the process and making it feel less intimidating. We kept these books in his potty basket, allowing him to flip through them while sitting, which served as a great way to keep him calm and engaged. Some picks that resonated with him were game-changers in making the process less daunting.

Be Prepared for Accidents

Accidents—let’s face it, they are an inevitable part of potty training. To navigate this uncharted territory with a little less stress, it helps to have your cleaning supplies organized in a portable caddy. This way, you can quickly grab what you need without running around in a panic. We stored our nicer rugs in the garage during this phase, sparing ourselves from stains until our son honed his skills.

When in Doubt, Get Creative

Potty training is a natural milestone in your child’s development, yet it can still feel overwhelming for them. Having relied on diapers for so long, it’s no surprise that the transition can present challenges. Our son was particularly resistant, and we quickly recognized that we needed to find creative ways to encourage him. Instead of turning to bribery, we filled his potty basket with small surprises—like stickers, bubbles, or even sprinkles—which turned potty time into a fun, rewarding experience.

However, it’s crucial to remember that no matter how much effort you put into preparing your child for this big change, you can’t force them to do something they’re not ready for. This doesn’t reflect poorly on either of you—it’s just part of the process.

Potty training can be overwhelming, but let’s agree to keep the stress in check. Take a deep breath, mama! They won’t be in diapers forever, I promise. Each step, no matter how challenging, brings your little one closer to conquering this milestone. You’ve got this!