How to Use the Dr. Phil Potty Training Method

It may sound too good to be true -- potty training your toddler in just a day. It's the method touted by TV psychologist Dr. Phil McGraw and one with which some parents have found success. Based on positive reinforcement and muscle memory, the Dr. Phil potty training method may be worth a try -- after all, it's just one day out of your toddler's schedule. Just keep in mind that it may not be effective for all kids.

Things You'll Need

  • Training doll
  • Child potty
  • Salty snacks
  • Drinks
  • Prize
  • Underwear

Instructions

    • 1

      Assess if your child is old enough to consider potty training. Age doesn't matter as much as readiness -- showing an interest in using the potty, the ability to hold urine for at least two hours and the ability to express a need to use the potty are all signs that your child is ready to try, according to KidsHealth.org.

    • 2

      Purchase a doll that has the ability to use the potty. Allow your toddler to see you showing the doll how to use the potty and giving plenty of encouragement and praise when the doll uses the potty -- either a child-sized potty or a regular potty with a toddler seat installed.

    • 3

      Announce that you're throwing a potty party for the doll. You can have special treats, a prize or some games and music to show your toddler that using the potty is fun and exciting.

    • 4

      Nix your child's diapers and let him know you're going to be having a potty party for him as well. It may help if you have underwear with your child's favorite character handy to show him and try on.

    • 5

      Give your toddler plenty of salty snacks, so he's more likely to need a drink -- juice and water both work well.

    • 6

      Ask your child frequently if he needs to use the potty. If he says yes, go to the bathroom and let him sit on the potty. Offer praise even if he doesn't go. Repeat the process throughout the entire day.

    • 7

      Take your toddler into the bathroom each time he has an accident. Never scold, but have your child pull down his underwear and sit on the toilet 10 times for each accident. The Dr. Phil website suggests this helps reinforce using the potty as well as building muscle memory.

    • 8

      Repeat the process throughout the day -- asking if your toddler needs to use the potty and using the 10 times method each time he has an accident.

    • 9

      Keep a party atmosphere throughout the day so that training is a positive experience. Play games, watch movies and dance to music as you wait for the next trip to the bathroom. Each time your toddler is successful, offer lots of praise and positive reinforcement. You can also offer a prize each time -- a small candy or toy to incentivize the process.

    • 10

      Use sleep training pants overnight. Even if the one-day potty training method works, your little one will likely be unable to go all night without an accident just yet. Continue similar behavior -- asking if your child needs to use the bathroom frequently and using the 10 times method -- the next few days to increase your chances of success.

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