Potty Training Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare: Real Tips from a Mom Who’s Been There

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Potty training can feel terrifying for a lot of parents. Teaching your child to talk, walk, and play? That’s the fun stuff. But teaching them to pee or poop somewhere other than their diaper? Now that’s scary.

But don’t worry it really doesn’t have to be overwhelming, frustrating, or stressful. The secret is knowing how to approach it with the right mindset and a few helpful tips. I’ve potty trained two kids (with one being way tougher than the other, more on that later 😉), and here’s what I’ve learned.

Timing Is Everything

And I’m not talking about society’s timeline or your neighbor’s or your mother-in-law’s. I’m talking about your child’s timeline.

More important than their age is whether they’re ready. Trying to force potty training before your child is developmentally prepared can turn a short process into a months-long battle.

Many children show signs of readiness somewhere between 18–24 months, but some are closer to 3 years old and that’s completely normal.

Signs Your Child Might Be Ready:

  • Shows interest in the toilet or asks about grown-up bathroom habits

  • Can stay dry for 2+ hours or wakes up from naps with a dry diaper

  • Has a predictable pooping schedule

  • Complains about a wet or dirty diaper

  • Starts trying to take off their diaper

  • Understands and follows simple instructions

Even if your child checks all the boxes, potty training might still be bumpy at first. If it feels like they’re just not ready, it’s okay to pause and try again later. They’ll get there!

Be Consistent

Consistency is everything. Kids thrive on routine, and potty training is no different.

Try to take your child to the bathroom at regular intervals like after meals, before naps, after naps, and before bedtime. Or if it works better for you, build a specific schedule and stick to it.

And consistency doesn’t just apply to timing. If your child likes using a certain soap or hears the same silly potty song every time, keep that routine going. Familiarity makes kids feel safe and confident.

If your child is in daycare or has another caregiver, coordinate your methods. Try to keep the experience consistent wherever your child is, so there’s less confusion and more progress.

Patience, Patience, Patience

I know it’s tempting to just get it over with, but rushing the process can backfire. If your child takes 30 minutes to go every time? Let them. Don’t rush. Make the experience enjoyable.

Turn it into bonding time:
🎵 Make up a potty song
📚 Read a short story
🎯 Play a little game
🎉 Celebrate every win, even the small ones!

Positive reinforcement is huge. Whether it’s verbal praise, stickers, a potty treat, or just a big hug, make sure your child knows they’ve done something worth celebrating.

Pay Attention to Your Child’s Cues

Not every challenge during potty training is about readiness some are about fears or anxieties.

Some common potty fears:

  • Being scared of the sound of pee hitting water (yep, my youngest hated that!)

  • Seeing poop as “part of them” and being scared to flush it away

  • Fear of the toilet’s size, height, or loud flush

Be observant. If your child seems upset or resistant, figure out what’s causing it. Then get creative. Use a potty seat, decorate the bathroom, or even give your child a “potty buddy” stuffed animal to help ease their worries.

The quicker you spot and gently address a fear, the smoother things will go.

A Note for the Discouraged Mama

Listen, if potty training isn’t going how you thought it would you’re not alone. And you’re not failing.

Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s, whether it’s your friend’s kid or even your own older child. I’ve had two completely different potty training experiences:

  • My oldest couldn’t stand a dirty diaper she practically potty trained herself.

  • My youngest? She hated being changed and would cry unless I sang to her the entire time. Overflowing diaper? Still not a fan of changing. 🙃

Every child is different. Every potty training journey is different. Give yourself and your child grace.

This season might not be as fun as teaching your child to talk or walk, but it’s still a precious part of the journey. Someday, you’ll look back and laugh. So take a deep breath, celebrate every step forward, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.

💬 Do you have a potty training trick that worked for your child? I’d love to hear it! Drop it in the comments below to help encourage another parent.

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