Have you ever rewarded yourself for a job well done? Maybe you bought your coffee instead of making it. Or you enjoyed a half-hour in the bathtub with no interruptions. Children need rewards too, especially during their potty training journey, and a little reward can go a long way to make them feel special. These fun potty training ideas are a great place to start.
Whatever your reward, it made you feel good, right? And it probably made you want to do more of the good job you’d done to earn it. That’s exactly how a rewards system works for potty trainees. Imagine you’re a toddler and you’re being asked to try an entirely new process — one that seems much harder than just peeing and pooping in your diaper like you’ve done for the past few years. The idea of potty training might feel overwhelming, tiring and even scary. So, a little reward or two can go a long way in making potty training more fun and make them want to be successful. Try these ideas for potty training prizes as you’re planning your approach:
- Stickers – When potty training your child, try giving them stickers that can be affixed to their shirt like little decorated generals. Wearing a reward can make kids feel proud of their achievements and encourage them to share the good news with friends and family members who see their sticker. Or, download one of these sticker charts to hang in the bathroom that they see each time they try!
- Snacks – Some parents have found success rewarding potty activity with little snacks such as mini marshmallows or small chocolate candies — one for number one and two for number two, of course. Planning to use this technique for more than a few weeks? You may want to consider a non-sugary option such as raisins, crackers or pretzels. It all depends on your family’s approach to sweets and what your child finds most motivating.
- FaceTiming their favorite Disney character – When they’ve reached a big milestone or could use a little extra encouragement, arrange a call from your child’s favorite Disney character. Would talking to Rapunzel motivate them? Or maybe Buzz Lightyear, Mickey or Lightning McQueen?
- Silly story time – Keep a pile of books by the potty so your child can “read” while doing their business. If they’d like company, make this time a story time where you read aloud with your child and help them pass the time and not be anxious about going. Make this a bonding moment for both of you!
DIY Potty Training Rewards
With so many fun options out there, there’s sure to be one that fits your child’s potty training personality. The key is to figure out what works and change it up if the reward stops working as an incentive. For instance, offer a different sheet of stickers every few days.
Some parents have skipped the treats altogether and used different methods like singing and dancing, calling Grandma or simply offering up an enthusiastic high-five. Whatever you choose, just be sure to stay positive — and share that positivity with your potty training toddler each and every day. With small steps and constant reinforcement, your child will soon be on their way to potty training success.
Some parents have skipped the treats altogether and used different methods like singing and dancing, calling Grandma or simply offering up an enthusiastic high-five. Whatever you choose, just be sure to stay positive — and share that positivity with your potty training toddler each and every day. With small steps and constant reinforcement, your child will soon be on their way to potty training success.
