Hey there! I may not be communicating it with words, but there's a good chance, especially if you found this post through a search, that I am already ready to learn about the potty. Many kids show readiness as early as 16-18 months. Let me explain how you’ll know I’m ready and guide you through the steps to get us there. Trust me, if I'm not ready now, I'll be ready sooner than you think! Together we can make it a smooth and exciting transition!
How Do You Know I’m Ready?
Here’s what to watch for to know I’m ready to ditch the diapers:
I stay dry for longer stretches, especially after naps.
I show interest in what you’re doing in the bathroom (I love learning from you!).
I can pull my pants up and down (even if it’s not perfect yet).
I seem aware of when I’m wet or dirty and maybe even let you know.
I follow simple directions, like “Come here” or “Bring me the toy.”
If I’m showing even a few of these signs, it’s time to get started. The perfect time to tackle this transition is as soon as we both are ready. This marks a bit of a transition from baby to toddler for me so you need to be ready as well!
The 4 Steps to Potty Training Success
We’ll work through these stages together, starting with the basics and building my confidence along the way. If this is done correctly, we can get through the foundational stages in as little as a weekend and just have maintenance to worry about going forward!
1. Pants Off, Dance Off
Let’s keep things simple to start! Take my pants and diaper off during the day, and let me learn how my body works. This way, I can feel when I’m going and start connecting the dots. You can put a potty and a bunch of toys in a carpet-free room and spend some quality time with me while you show me where I will be eliminating from now on. It will likely happen on the floor initially (hence the carpet-free bit) but each time we will get more and more in the potty. We’ll celebrate every little success—clapping and high-fives go a long way!
2. Commando Couch Potato
Once I get the hang of recognizing the feeling, we’ll add some structure. I’ll go commando under my pants to give me the freedom to learn without diapers or undies. Underwear feels a lot like a diaper to me so we will have more success without them to start (and pull-ups ARE diapers so don't waste your money on those.) We can use routines to remind me to try the potty—like after meals, naps, or playtime but you'll have to keep a close eye on me while we both learn my patterns and signals.
3. Commando Crusades
Now that we are both gaining confidence we’re ready to leave the house! I’ll still be commando under my clothes so I can keep learning without the false confidence tight-fitting undergarments can give me. We'll start small with low-pressure outings that don't have time constrictions or other people's expectations connected to them. You can bring my potty on the go or know where the bathrooms are.
Tip: Bring some painter's tape or a post-it to cover the sensors on automatic flushing toilets. That surprise can set me back when it comes to using public facilities.
4. Underoo Crew
When I’m consistently using the potty, we’ll celebrate with my very first pair of big-kid underwear. I’ll be so proud to join the “Underoo Crew.” Don’t worry if there are occasional accidents—I’m still learning, and your encouragement means the world to me.
Let’s Start Early: Toileting Is a Journey
Toileting is something I can learn about at any time, even before we officially tackle this milestone. Reading books about the potty, letting me watch you use it, and talking about it in positive ways helps me feel confident and curious. I’ll be ready to start earlier than you think—I just need your patience and encouragement!
Need Help? Mindful Family Management Has You Covered
Toilet Learning (potty training) can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Mindful Family Management offers:
Phone or Text Support: Guidance and encouragement while you tackle potty training on your own.
Personal Coaching: Let’s create a plan tailored to your child and family’s needs.
In-Person Assistance: Hands-on help to move through the stages with confidence.
Professional Implementation: Enjoy some well-deserved time off while we take care of the hard part.
No matter where you are in the process, we’re here to help. Let’s make potty training a positive experience for you and your little one!
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