One minute, you’re celebrating a successful pee in the potty like you just won an Oscar. The next, you’re scraping poop out of tiny underwear, wondering where it all went wrong.
If potty training has turned your home into a battlefield, you’re not alone. It’s one of those parenting milestones that looks simple in theory but quickly becomes an emotional rollercoaster (for both you and your toddler). But don’t worry, Mama, I’ve got your back. Let’s break down the eight biggest potty training mistakes you might be making (without even realizing it!) and how to fix them before you lose your sanity.
1. Rushing the Process (a.k.a. The “You’re Three Now, It’s Time!” Trap)
We’ve all been there, your kid hits the magical potty-training age, and you assume they’ll just get it. Spoiler alert: They won’t.
Fix It: Watch for readiness signs instead of the calendar. Are they pulling at their diaper? Hiding to poop? Announcing their bodily functions like a proud broadcaster? If not, it might be too soon. And trust me, pushing it too early will only backfire (hello, power struggles!).
2. Using Pull-Ups Like a Crutch
Pull-ups are great in theory, but for some kids, they’re just glorified diapers. Why give up the comfy convenience of a diaper when you don’t have to?
Fix It: If you’re serious about potty training, go straight to undies during the day. It’s messy (oh, so messy), but it speeds up the process. Reserve pull-ups for nighttime and long trips.
3. Making the Potty a Pressure Cooker
Saying things like, “You HAVE to go potty before we leave,” or hovering over your child while they sit on the potty (awkward) just adds stress. And stress = resistance.
Fix It: Keep it casual. Give them control by saying, “Your potty is right here if you feel like using it!” Kids love being the boss, it works like magic.
4. Freaking Out Over Accidents
I get it, stepping in a mystery puddle isn’t exactly fun. But if you lose your cool every time they have an accident, they might start hiding their messes (oh yes, that’s a thing).
Fix It: Stay calm. Say, “Oops! Let’s clean it up together!” and move on. Potty training is a learning process, not a one-time event.
5. Letting the Bathroom Be Boring
If sitting on the potty feels like punishment, your kid will avoid it like the plague.
Fix It: Make potty time FUN. Keep a stash of potty-only books, small toys, or a potty training sticker chart nearby. Oh, and if you haven’t tried a potty training watch, this is your sign, it’s a total game-changer. This genius little gadget reminds kids to take potty breaks without you having to nag.
Grab one here before they sell out! (Trust me, it’s worth it.)
6. Not Making It a Big Deal (When It Actually IS a Big Deal)
Imagine your toddler finally pees in the potty, and you barely react. Lame.
Fix It: Hype it up! Dance parties, high-fives, reward charts, whatever works. Make them feel like they just won the Super Bowl.
7. Flushing Their Fear Away (Literally)
Some kids are terrified of the potty flushing. It’s loud, unpredictable, and sucks things into the abyss.
Fix It: If your kid hates flushing, don’t force it. Let them leave the bathroom first, then you can flush. Over time, let them press the handle with you. Small steps!
8. Expecting Overnight Success
Potty training is not a one-and-done thing, it’s a journey. And like any journey, there will be bumps (and probably a few wet car seats).
Fix It: Be patient. Stay consistent. And remind yourself that your child will not be wearing diapers to college.
Ready to Ditch the Diapers for Good?
Potty training doesn’t have to feel like a war zone. Avoid these mistakes, grab that potty training watch (seriously, it will change your life!), and celebrate the small wins.
You’ve got this, Mama!