Dear Potty Training Parents
Their curiosity is piqued. They’re getting too big for diapers. They’re the proper age to start. Whatever the reason, you embark on this journey with your child.
While there are different methods, know that whatever is popular or whatever people swear by… may not work for your child. DON’T PANIC! I’ve done that already. Twice.
The First Time
With my older son, I started him on Pull-Ups. I figured that’s what every parent did. It was a slow introduction that we eased into and I did my best to be consistent. However… when he had accidents, he cried. He saw how happy and excited I was the first time he successfully used the potty and quickly figured he’d receive the opposite of a celebration or reward.
I assured him that everyone has accidents and that while his may have been inconvenient for me, I knew he was still in the process of learning and that he would not be reprimanded as long as he understood what he was supposed to do.
When my father decided to take over after only two months of potty training, he used corporal punishment. (Insert facepalm here.) So, sure. He was successful. My son would run to the potty even if he thought he needed to go. Still, I believe it was not an ideal method. He was officially scared for the next few years of ever having an accident anywhere.
