Potty Training 101: top methods, readiness signs, and effectiveness

As a certified expert in the child-oriented potty training method, I have learned that allowing children to own the process and be in control is crucial for their development. This approach not only helps with potty training but also fosters independence and confidence, teaching children that they are in control of their bodies and decisions. This sense of control can positively influence their self-esteem and autonomy, showing them that no authority can override their choices, which is beneficial for their overall growth and development.

Additionally, this method is often referred to as “toilet learning” rather than “training.” This terminology emphasizes that using the toilet is a natural developmental milestone, similar to walking or crawling. Just as parents provide a conducive environment for walking by offering support and objects to pull up on, they can create a supportive environment for toilet learning by placing a potty chair next to their own toilet, allowing the child to observe and imitate. This reduces the pressure on both parents and children, allowing the process to unfold naturally when the child shows readiness.

Tip: whatever method you choose never force a toddler to sit on the potty seat!

1. Comparison of potty training methods

Method	Description	Success Rate	Ideal Age	Typical Duration to Fully Train	Pros	Cons
3-Day Potty Training	Intensive method over a few days with constant parent supervision and prompt toilet visits.	74% to 100% for younger toddlers; 93% to 100% for older toddlers	24 to 36 months	3 days to 1 week	Quick results, clear structure, intense focus can lead to rapid success	Can be stressful for both parent and child, requires full commitment.
Child-Oriented Approach	Wait for signs of readiness and gently guide the child through the process at their own pace.	Variable, generally high over time	24 to 36 months	3 to 6 months	Reduces stress, child-led pace, encourages independence and confidence	Takes longer, requires patience, may have inconsistent progress.
Scheduled Potty Training	Regularly scheduled toilet visits regardless of the child’s signals.	Moderate to high	24 to 36 months	2 to 4 months	Creates a routine, good for children who resist other methods	Can be rigid, may not teach child to recognize their own cues.
Infant Potty Training	Start from infancy, recognizing and responding to the baby’s elimination cues.	Variable, high for dedicated families	0 to 18 months	Several months to years	Early start, strong parent-child communication, reduces diaper use	Time-consuming, high parental involvement, may be impractical for many families.
Positive Reinforcement	Use rewards and praise to encourage the child to use the toilet.	High, especially in combination with other methods	24 to 36 months	1 to 3 months	Motivates children, fosters a positive learning environment, easy to implement	Over-reliance on rewards, may lead to expectations of rewards for all behaviors.

2. Checklist for potty readiness

Regardless of the method you choose, each has demonstrated that the success rate is higher and takes less time when children show readiness. Readiness means you can reply “yes” to most of the items on the checklist below:

• Physical Readiness:
  • Can walk and sit down independently.
  • Can pull pants up and down.
  • Stays dry for at least two hours at a time or after naps.
  • Has regular bowel movements.
• Cognitive Readiness:
  • Understands basic potty-related vocabulary.
  • Can follow simple instructions.
  • Recognizes the need to use the toilet and can communicate it.
• Emotional and Behavioral Readiness:
  • Shows interest in using the toilet or wearing underwear.
  • Demonstrates a desire for independence.
  • Is comfortable with a routine.
  • Willing to cooperate and try using the potty.
• Age Considerations:
  • Most children show signs of readiness between 18 and 36 months.
  • Each child is different; readiness cues are more important than age alone.

3. Detailed description for each method

3-Day potty training method

Steps:

1. Preparation: Choose a long weekend or a few consecutive days where you can stay at home.
2. First Day:

• Remove the child’s diaper and dress them in underwear or completely naked so the child is aware of their body.
• Offer plenty of fluids to increase the frequency of urination.
• Watch for signs that the child needs to go (squirming, holding themselves).
• Prompt the child to use the potty every 15-30 minutes.
• Celebrate successes with praise and small rewards.

1. Second and Third Days:

• Continue the routine with consistent reminders and encouragement.
• Gradually increase the time between potty visits as the child begins to understand the cues.
• Handle accidents calmly, reinforcing the importance of using the potty.

1. Post-Training:

• Maintain a consistent routine and encourage independence.

Books for 3-days training

Child-Oriented approach

Steps:

1. Observe Readiness: Look for signs of readiness such as staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the toilet, and understanding simple instructions.
2. Introduce the Potty: Place a potty chair in the bathroom and let the child explore it.
3. Routine Visits: Encourage the child to sit on the potty at regular times, such as after meals or before bedtime.
4. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward the child for sitting on the potty, even if they don’t go.
5. Gradual Transition: Slowly increase the time the child spends in underwear and reduce diaper use.
6. Patience and Encouragement: Be patient and avoid pressure, allowing the child to progress at their own pace.

Scheduled potty training

Steps:

1. Set a Schedule: Take the child to the potty at regular intervals, such as every 2 hours.
2. Consistency: Stick to the schedule every day to build a routine.
3. Encourage Sitting: Encourage the child to sit on the potty for a few minutes each time.
4. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward the child for using the potty successfully.
5. Adjust as Needed: Gradually increase the intervals as the child becomes more accustomed to the routine.

Infant potty training (or aka Elimination communication)

Steps:

1. Observation: Learn the baby’s elimination cues and patterns.
2. Cues and Signals: Use sounds or signals to associate with the baby’s need to eliminate.
3. Consistent Timing: Offer potty opportunities at regular times, such as after naps or feedings.
4. Patience: Be patient and consistent, responding to the baby’s cues.
5. Gradual Independence: Gradually encourage the baby to use the potty independently as they grow.

Positive reinforcement

Steps:

1. Introduce the Potty: Familiarize the child with the potty and let them decorate it.
2. Positive Environment: Create a positive and encouraging environment around potty use.
3. Rewards: Use small rewards, such as stickers or treats, for successful potty use.
4. Consistency: Be consistent with praise and rewards to reinforce the behavior.
5. Gradual Reduction: Gradually reduce the rewards as the child becomes more accustomed to using the potty.

Products helpful for potty training

Please comment below if you have any questions and I’ll give you more details. I’m certified in the child oriented method, so I can help you more on that one!

You got this, mama!