Potty

I fostered fourteen kids over ten years, six were under the age of five. I had three children of my own. There was a lot of potty training in my house. I got rid of the last potty in my house six years ago. Kids will be trained when THEY are ready. Each one is different and all different ages, don’t compare. You have to think like a toddler to do the job. Age ranges from eighteen months to five years, for being completely trained. Background, emotional ability, mentality all play a role, and I am not even talking about the kids.

Some kids don’t like to be dirty or wet. That makes the job easier. Some are terrified of the toilet or the flush sound. I have taken a toddler to a public bathroom and have been their seat because the space on the lid is too much. Some are independent or want privacy, these kids will make the most mess but a willful child is determined. Although I had two hiders when it was time for the BM but peeing was no problem. Some are extremely anxious about bodily functions and may need a happy story about getting the job done. We have had the vengeful poopers that seem to do it specifically when it gets them out of a task or the holders that wait until it is too late becoming extremely upset with the accident.

Summer training is easier, no pants, no problem. They can start off strong and regress in an instant. Let them set the pace. A child has been trained in a weekend and others can take a year. You shouldn’t punish accidents. It is a habit that has to be formed. When they get up, before and after meals, before and after naps, before bed. Sound sleepers may need a diaper at night. It requires consistency and patience. It is a milestone, and a celebration for every success! Soon enough it will all be behind you, and you will move on to your own bladder control!