Tips and Tricks for Potty Training

Lindsay O’Laughlin, OTDs & Caroline Ward, OTD, OTR/L

Potty training can be a challenging time for parents, but there are resources out there that can help support the journey. Toilet training is a big milestone that will require patience throughout the whole process. Independent toileting will not happen overnight, it may take weeks or months depending on the child. Everyone is different! There is more to it than just the basic steps. Make potty training smoother for you and your child with these expert-backed tips.

Prepare your child

• Explain the use of a toilet and why it is needed
• Describe in accurate but simple terms what poop and pee are and why our body needs to dispose of it
• Read books about using the potty
• Practice sitting on the toilet or small potty, even if diaper is still on
• Allow your child to observe you using the toilet to help establish the process
• Provide reassurance and support to create a safe environment

Learn about the different methods used for potty training

The 3-day method is known for being a more intense at home approach to toilet training that takes place over a few full days.

• Switch to underwear or nothing below the waist to encourage awareness of bodily sensations
• Ensure you have a few days free without needing to leave the house to keep a consistent routine
• Begin with toilet sits every 15 minutes, and increase every day (or halfway through day) by 10-15 minutes
• Watch out for signs of urgency such as crossing legs or squatting in the corner
• Increase fluids throughout the day (by a lot)
• Changes to schedule can begin after a few days depending on preference (stop reminding to use potty, go run an errand, etc.)
• Reminder that this may take longer than three days, but a few days of intensive can make a big difference
• Remember to not scold or shame if there is a leakage (accidents will happen!)

Child-led method is known for being a gradual approach to toilet training, allowing the child to decide when they are ready.

• Encourage your child to sit on the potty when they feel ready, even if they are still wearing clothes
• Teach your child how the toilet works and what happens to poop and pee when it flushes
• Allow them to follow you to the restroom to encourage the process
• Dump waste from the diaper into the potty while your child watches
• Wait until your child is motivated to use “big kid” underwear before switching
• Create a consistent potty sitting routine in the morning, after each meal, and before bedtime
• Remind yourself to keep toilet training a positive experience
• Exploration is a key component of this method!

Expert Tips & Strategies

• Having toileting steps on a visual sign using short words and pictures in the bathroom
• Use positive reinforcement – even little wins are big!
• Switch to training pants during the day to promote awareness, it won’t soak up urine or stool like a diaper or pull up does
• Ensure correct positioning: feet should be touching the floor or smalls tool and leaning forward to where the forearms touch the thighs
• Be sure to teach hygiene habits to avoid infections and reduce stains in underwear (girls wipe front to back)
• Create a schedule for toilet sits, for example: first thing in the morning, 15-20 minutes after each meal, after school or daycare and right before bed
• If there is fear surrounding an automatic flusher, put a sticky note or piece of toilet paper on the sensor
• Use incentives such as a sticker board or allow more time playing a game they enjoy
• Use sound prompts when toileting (ex. Whoosh noise) to associate the sound with body functions
• Use pretend play with a favorite doll to show the process of toileting
• Wait until there is an appropriate amount of time to focus on this skill, if there is a big vacation or move coming up, hold off until after

Ready for more personalized support? Schedule a free consultation with one of our therapists today and get expert guidance tailored to your family’s needs.