You may be ready for a successful potty training journey, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be a smooth transition. Potty training is difficult for many kids, and it can be frustrating if you are the adult trying to encourage the process. Here are some things to keep in mind if potty training isn’t workout out the way you wanted.
Try Something New
If you have gone down a potty training path that isn’t working, it’s time to try something new. Not every child responds to the same approach, but there are plenty of places to look for other techniques. There are lots of creative potty training tips on the web that you can try if other methods aren’t working for you and your toddler. Parenting websites with information on this topic are everywhere. Books in your local library also will likely cover potty training. It’s also a good idea to ask relatives and friends what worked when they were potty training a little one. You never know where you will find the right advice, so explore a variety of sources.
Offer an Incentive
Some adults don’t like the idea of offering a child a reward for using the potty. However, this approach can help get the process started, and the reward can be something that you are OK with offering. A longer bedtime story, an extra serving of fruit or a special date are all possibilities when it comes to rewards. A child won’t require a reward to use the potty forever. In fact, kids quickly move beyond needing this motivation. Positive peer pressure and the elimination of diapers will be the real rewards when your child gets the hang of potty training.
Be Patient
Being patient is important. Every child is different, and your child has to potty train when he or she is ready. If your child senses that you are stressed about the situation, he or she will become stressed. This can actually cause potty training to take longer. Acknowledge small wins, and let the process unravel in its own time. Eventually, your child will use the potty. You don’t want to look back at your time trying to potty train your child as simply days or months of stress.
Potty training isn’t an easy process, but it is a necessary part of raising a child. Stay calm, try different approaches, and eventually you will find success!