Looking to potty train your little one?
There’s plenty of information out there on how to start the potty training process – but it’s all about picking the method that works best for you, your little one and your sanity.
Which, at times, can feel like it’s easier said that done.
But your biggest goal is to get your toddler using the bathroom regularly by the time next week rolls around, there’s a few tips and tricks on how to potty train in three days (according to the experts).
Lora Jenson, the author of 3-Day Potty Training, says care givers should be ready to dedicate a full three days to mastering the technique.
And everything – from household chores to mealtime – should be planned out ahead of time, so you’ll be able to focus and bond with your little one.
She told the publication:
“Have your shopping done and meals prepared ahead of time.
“Do the laundry and clean the house prior to starting. Be ready to play games, color, watch cartoons and just enjoy some bonding time with your child.”
She also advised that if you’ve got older children, to arrange to play dates or activities for them to make sure all your focus is on the potty trainee.
Jenson says that on the first morning, right after your little one wakes up, you should change whatever nappy they’re wearing – and have them help by bidding it “bye-bye”.
Then, change your child into an oversized t-shirt and explain that they won’t be using diapers any longer – and if they do need the bathroom, they should use the potty instead.
Even if it doesn’t necessarily sink in right away, just be patient – consistency, above all else, is key with this.
During breakfast, make sure that your toddler has an extra drink with their food – and, afterward, accompany them to the toilet in the hopes that they’ll be willing to give it a try.
Go about your normal day, but just make sure you don’t leave the house for the next three days.
The trick, according to Jenson, is to make sure that you’ve constantly got plenty of liquids nearby (like a sip cup filled with water) and taking them to the toilet every 15 minutes throughout the day.
After dinner, all liquids and snacks should be cut off – with one final trip to the bathroom before bed.
To keep things consistent and not confusing, Jenson advises waking your child up throughout the night.
She explained:
“You will be training for both day and night. Training for both at the same time keeps the child from getting confused.
“If you train for both day and night, you eliminate the crutch or feeling they can just go in their diaper or pull-up.”
Meanwhile, MomJunction advises making sure that you pick the right time if you’re going to try the three-day potty training.
It’s best to avoid trying potty training when the toddler may be feeling stressed – and you should talk about the potty beforehand, too, just to make sure your little one isn’t caught off guard.
