Potty-Training Tips for Stubborn Children

Potty training can be one of the most challenging times for a parent. Children are used to wearing a diaper; changing this habit takes time and patience. There are many approaches to potty training, and the process can take a long time depending on the child being trained.

  1. Introduction to Potty Training

    • Introducing the toilet to the child before you begin potty training makes the introduction easier. Placing the child on the toilet each night before she is bathed can do this.

      Many children feel insecure using a tall toilet to go to the bathroom. Purchase a child-size toilet for the child to use. Having his feet on the ground makes him feel more secure. Some children also need privacy to go to the bathroom. If this is the case, close the door for the child or step out of the bathroom while the child is using the toilet. If the child has a bowel movement in a diaper, dump the feces into the toilet while the child watches. This will show the child the purpose of the toilet.

    Using a Puppet

    • Children learn well when an action is modeled for them; do this with potty training by using a puppet. Buy a puppet with a body long enough to put a turkey baster or needle-free syringe into the body and fill the baster or syringe with water. Have the puppet sit on the child's potty and squeeze the water into the toilet. After the child sees the puppet has gone to the bathroom on the toilet, ask the child to do the same. Give the puppet a name and play with the puppet even when the child is not being potty trained so the child can develop a relationship with the puppet.

    Rewards

    • Having a reward for going potty on the toilet is also a great way to promote potty training. Have a basket with small toys and lollipops and allow the child to choose a treat after using the toilet. You could also use a chart and have the child put stickers on the chart when she uses the toilet. Once the child has three stickers a day, she can get a treat. You can increase the amount of stickers needed each day as the child improves using the potty.

    Other Considerations

    • Using a toilet can be very frustrating for both the parents and the child. Remember to be patient with the child. Using a toilet is a new concept for the child, and changing the habit of using a diaper can take time. Talk about using the toilet before you begin potty training so the child knows what to expect. Let the child pick out underwear with a character of his choice to make the process more exciting. Children often have a harder time using a toilet in an unfamiliar location; remind them to use the toilet before leaving the house. Always remember to praise them when they use the toilet and understand when they have an accident. If a child is afraid that you will get upset if they have an accident, they might be hesitant to use the toilet.

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