Potty Training

There are so many tricks and tips for helping kids potty train, I'm sure anyone who has been through the situation has heard them all, stickers, m&m's, presents, making the bathroom a "happy place" blah blah blabbity blah.

Truth is you can move the moon and stars for a child, it won't make them potty train if they aren't ready. The normal age I've seen is exactly 2 and a half. When I worked in a toddler room we did a large amount of potty training (8 kids at a time). We did our best to follow whatever method the parents were doing, but when you have to do this for 8 kids it can get difficult. If a parent uses bribes at home the child may not be able to get his or her treat while they are there. Stickers are also rarely used in a daycare because they don't stay on clothes...ever.

If a child is older than 2 and a half and still resisting potty training it may be a simple matter of "they-don't-want-to-ism". Diapers now wick away so much moisture wearing a diaper is barely uncomfortable. Besides the fact diapers are all they know and sometimes they see no reason to change. My favorite method is the "sit-in-it". Seems a touch mean but the trick is to switch things up and to make not being potty trained uncomfortable and a little embarrassing. The idea is to keep them out of diapers all day long and to make a big deal about the underwear, favorite character/color whatever, so when they inevitably have an accident they are upset about it. Eventually they'll hate the idea of being wet/messy and see the potty as the wonderful alternative.

My dad's favorite story is about my youngest brother who wouldn't potty train, so one day he took him out for ice cream and he pooped his pants. He was mortified, he wanted to be home and clean and cried the whole car ride. He never had another accident.

I guess what my point is, don't be afraid to make a drastic move (and a lot more laundry) if you feel it's warranted.