When it comes to potty training, every child’s journey looks a little different. Some toddlers take to the potty with excitement, while others need a little extra time and reassurance. And that’s perfectly okay.
At Celebree School, we encourage parents to think of this stage less as potty training and more as potty preparing.
You’re opening the door and guiding your child toward independence—gently, patiently, and with love. Whether your little one is just starting out or in the middle of learning, these five universal tips can help make the process calmer and more successful.
- Introduce Your Child to the Potty Early
Even before your child is ready to ditch diapers, you can start normalizing what the potty is. Talk about it casually—when you’re changing diapers, when you go to the bathroom, or even when reading stories. Using everyday language helps build understanding.
The Mayo Clinic recommends introducing simple, consistent words like “pee,” “poop,” and “potty” early on and pointing out when your child might need to go. This kind of everyday language helps your child feel comfortable and curious about what’s happening. It turns the potty from something mysterious into something familiar.
And don’t be afraid to make it fun! Read a few silly potty books, sing songs, or chat about washing hands afterward. When potty time feels playful and positive, your child is more likely to want to join in.
- Create a Positive, Pressure-Free Environment
Potty time shouldn’t feel like a test. It’s a learning process. Children make the most progress when they feel calm, safe, and supported, not when they’re rushed or pushed. Gentle parenting experts often remind us that potty learning is more about exploration than expectation (Mellow Nest, 2018).
Accidents will happen, and that’s perfectly normal. Take a breath, clean up together, and move on. When you respond with calm encouragement instead of frustration, you teach your child that mistakes are just part of how we grow.
Keeping things light and reassuring builds confidence that lasts.
- Watch for Readiness Signs
Your little one will show you when they’re ready, usually through actions, not words. You might notice that they:
- Show interest in the bathroom or try to copy what older siblings do
- Stay dry for longer stretches of time
- Start to dislike being in a wet or dirty diaper
- Tell you when they’ve gone, or when they think they need to
When these signs start showing up, it’s your cue to gently introduce regular potty time. There’s no universal timeline for this stage—some children are ready closer to 18 months, others around age 3. The key is to follow your child’s rhythm, not the calendar.
- Dress for Independence
Make potty time easy for your child with clothes they can manage on their own. Elastic-waist pants or training underwear are great options. Pull-ups can serve as a helpful bridge between diapers and underwear, especially for naps and outings.
Just keep in mind that switching too early can cause frustration, so observe your child’s comfort level before transitioning fully. The goal is to help them feel empowered and capable one small success at a time.
- Celebrate Progress (Big or Small)
Every successful potty trip deserves recognition! Offer verbal praise, a high-five, or a happy dance together. Some families like to use sticker charts or small rewards, but whether you choose to or not is entirely up to you.
As The Bump notes, it’s important to avoid bribery or long-term reward systems, which can make potty time feel transactional. The goal is for your child to feel proud because they did it, not because they’re expecting a treat (The Bump, 2024).
What About Potty Training at Day Care?
If your child attends day care, know that you’re not alone in this process. At Celebree School, teachers work hand-in-hand with parents to maintain consistency and encouragement. We help reinforce what you’re doing at home and celebrate progress along the way—never rushing, always supporting.
Are Boys and Girls Different When It Comes to Potty Training?
Not really. While some parents might have anecdotes stating girls are easier or ready sooner, experts agree it depends more on individual development than gender (The Bump, 2024).
- For boys: It’s often best to start sitting down before learning to stand, which helps them focus and avoid confusion.
- For girls: Teach proper wiping (front to back) early on to build healthy habits.
The key is patience and positivity, no matter who’s learning.
How Long Does Potty Training Take?
There’s no set timeline. Some children catch on in a few weeks; others take months. Expect progress with a few setbacks along the way. That’s all part of it. Many toddlers master peeing first, then need extra time before pooping in the potty feels comfortable.
Through it all, remember to model patience, use encouraging language, and celebrate every small win. Your calm confidence helps your child feel safe and capable.
You’ve Got This, And We’re Here to Help
Potty training is a journey filled with tiny triumphs, funny stories, and the occasional puddle. Through it all, your love and consistency make the biggest difference.
At Celebree School, we’re proud to walk alongside families as children grow more independent each day, because learning to use the potty isn’t just about toileting. It’s about trust, confidence, and believing they can do big things all by themselves.