Ahhh the dreaded potty training. I can’t say this was something I was excited about per se. Was I ready to get one kid out of diapers? Absolutely yes. Was I ready to follow my toddler around with a mop to clean up pee on my brand new wood floors? Absolutely not. All in all, though, I must admit the process went much smoother than I expected.
Just as everything goes with parenting, one size doesn’t fit all and this is just what worked for us.
We started potty training right before Huxley turned 3. We did dabble some previously, but he was not ready. We waited for him to be ready, and I think that was the most important step. We attempted to follow the the Big Little Feelings potty training course. We gave it a full three days until we added in some of our own twists (aka rewards), but followed their course for the most part.
Potties
1. Training Potty
This is the potty we started on. The big toilet can be intimidating, and having a kid-friendly sized potty with a fun theme makes the transition more exciting.
2. Potty Liners
These were recommended to me, and boy am I thankful for that. These made clean up smooth and easy – especially while traveling.
3. Training Seat
This is what Huxley prefers to use now that he is trained. I prefer it too – much less mess!
Entertainment
1. Books
I grabbed a little bin from Target and created a bathroom book basket filled with books about going potty.
2. Gumball Machine
We gave potty training a full three days without rewards. It wasn’t working for us, so we introduced a gumball machine. It doesn’t have to be filled with gum – any round candy will do (m&ms, skittles, etc). Each time Huxley tried to go on the potty (even if he wasn’t successful), he was able to get one piece out of the gumball machine. This was a game changer for us as he found new motivation. After a few days, he thrived off our praise and forgot about the rewards.
Attire
1. Boxer Briefs
We started with regular underwear, but quickly moved to boxer briefs. Huxley finds them much more comfortable. We have tried a few brands, and the Little Sleepies are by far the favorite. They are SO soft. Just be sure to size up!
2. Nighttime Pull Ups
Though Hux wakes up most mornings dry, we have him sleeping in pull-ups until we feel he is ready to go all night in just underwear. (He does not nap in a pull-up.)