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Make Potty Time, Party Time
by Page Turner, Tennessee
We know the potty training process requires consistency and patience, but be sure to have some fun while youre at it. Page Turner, mother of three successfully potty-trained girls (including twins) has some hints for making potty time, party time.
"Celebrate successes," says Page. "After each successful trip to the bathroom throw a praise party-put on a party hat, dance and play games." If your child sees how fun celebrating their success can be, they ll want to do it again and again.
Even though your child may already be showing signs of interest when he or she starts potty training, why not make it a little more appealing? "Have your child decorate the bathroom with door hanger and signs made with puffy paint, markers and stickers," suggests Page.
Remember, every accomplishment along the way to potty training success counts, so celebrate those as well. Ask your child to choose a favorite location for a "field trip" you can take together such as the zoo or a water park. Put a bowl in a prominent place such as the coffee table or kitchen counter. "Every time your child uses the potty, flushes, or washes her hands, add a marker such as a poker chip, M&M or marble to the bowl," says Page. "Let your child know that each addition to the bowl is a sign of his progress. When the bowl is full you ll go on his field trip!"
Grab your child s attention by painting the potty training seat or portable potty. "Paint a bulls eye or tic-tac-toe where your child should be aiming," proposes Page. "If you ve got an artistic hand, try painting your child s favorite cartoon character." Your child may decide the bathroom and potty training can be good fun.
Some kids may think of potty training as a game-so oblige them and turn it into one. Take their favorite board game or guessing game and turn it into a tool to help them potty train," advises Page. Use it as an opportunity to quiz them on potty training with questions such as where should you go potty or whats the first thing you do after you ve gone potty? As with any game, reward them for the right answers.
Potty training while traveling can also be amusing. "Try playing or singing potty training songs in the car," says Page. This keeps potty training top-of-mind and is a great way for kids to pass time on the long drive to grandma and grandpa s house. "Of course, you dont have to be in the car to sing the praises of potty training," advises Page. "Have your child make up a song to her favorite tune. You could even record her and play it back to her each time she should visit the potty.
"Just remember," says Page, "the more fun you have during the process, the more fun your child will have learning how to be a
Big Kid®."
