We’re deep in the potty training phase, and I made up the beginning to a little song to the tune of Patience, by Guns N’ Roses.

It’s hard to pee with so many around.

You know I don’t like going poop in a crowd …

That’s all I got! GnR will never be the same now lol.

I think I should get a gold-star patience award for having a 20 minute discussion about why it isn’t cool to poop your pants and then hang out in it.

It’s not cool to be stinky. It’s not good for your butt. Do you want to have an ouchy bottom? And so on.

Potty Training Requires a Lot of Patience

Why is this even a thing? While I’m doing it there’s a little voice in the back of my head going WTF kid why don’t you want this diaper changed ASAP?

Why does this tiny human need to be cojoled out of his poopy drawers? I finally broke down and bribed him with M&Ms. A cooperative diaper change is a much happier experience for us all.

I’ve heard it’s more of a boy thing. My mom doesn’t have any stories like this about me. In fact, in her stories I pop out already talking, potty trained and refuse to even bother with diapers. Have I mentioned I’m over 40 and my mom’s had a lot of time to forget? I suspect there’s some holes in her story.

I also suspect there are a lot of future conversations with the toddler where I’m going to find myself going WTF am I talking about. I can only imagine what lies in store for me in the future…

“Why you can’t jump off the roof into the pool and other tragedies waiting to happen”

“The reason you have to wear clothes, and yes that includes pants”

“Ice cream is not suitable for dinner even though dad thinks it is”

What conversations have you had that go on the ridiculous list?

Potting Training Tips: Making the Transition Smoother for You and Your Child

Potty training is an important milestone, but it can also be a challenging time for both parents and children. Every child is different, and while some take to it quickly, others need a little more patience and encouragement. The key is to approach it with a positive mindset and realistic expectations. Here are some tips to help make potty training a smoother process.

Look for Readiness Signs

Not all children are ready to start potty training at the same age. Common signs of readiness include staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the bathroom, being able to pull pants up and down, and expressing discomfort with dirty diapers. If your child isn’t showing these signs yet, it might be best to wait a little longer.

Create a Routine

Introduce your child to the potty as part of their daily routine. Encourage them to sit on it at regular times, such as after meals or before bedtime. Keeping a consistent schedule helps them understand when it’s time to use the potty.

Make It Fun and Encouraging

Potty training doesn’t have to be stressful! Use books, songs, or a potty chart with stickers to keep it fun and rewarding. Offer praise and encouragement when your child successfully uses the potty, even if it’s just sitting on it at first.

Dress for Success

Choose clothing that’s easy to pull up and down. Complicated outfits with buttons or zippers can make it harder for your child to get to the potty in time.

Be Patient with Accidents

Accidents are part of the learning process. Instead of getting frustrated, remind your child gently to try using the potty next time. Keeping extra underwear and cleaning supplies handy can help make cleanup easier.

Try a Training Seat or Potty Chair

Some children feel more comfortable using a small potty chair, while others prefer a potty seat that fits on the regular toilet. Letting your child choose their own potty seat can make them more excited about the process.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Celebrate successes with claps, high-fives, or small rewards like stickers. Avoid punishment for accidents—this can create anxiety around using the potty.

Be Consistent, but Flexible

Once you start potty training, try to stick with it. However, if your child is resistant or having difficulty, it’s okay to take a break and try again later. Pressuring them can slow progress.

Introduce Nighttime Training Gradually

Daytime training usually happens before nighttime dryness. Many children take longer to stay dry at night, so using training pants or a waterproof mattress cover can help during this transition.

Potty training takes time and just a little patience, but with the right approach, your child will get there! Celebrate progress, stay positive, and remember that every child learns at their own pace.