Tips for Surviving Potty Training Trauma

Samantha from the mom blog Have Sippy, Will Travel lists her tips for helping parents potty train their children with as little stress as possible.

Potty training is one of those things in life that all parents and children have to get through, and while this time in life can lead to some comical experiences, it can also be the cause of anxiety for all parties involved.

Samantha, the mom blogger behind Have Sippy Will Travel, has helped to potty train dozens of children as a mother, nanny, and teacher. Along the way, she has learned a few things that will help parents and children get through this somewhat traumatic time with less stress on everyone. Here are a few tips that can help make potty training easier and less stressful for parents and children.

Location, Location, Location
Make sure to put the training potty where the child will feel warm and secure. Try to create a location that help reduce the number of “halfway there” accidents, too!

Consistency is Key
If the children are being potty trained at home, then they should also be going through training at school and with the babysitter. Sticking to the same routine in different locations with different people will help them get into the routine much quicker.

It's All About the Rewards
A little treat, such as an M&M, a fruit snack, or a sticker chart are all great rewards that will go a long way for a toddler.

Make a Game of It
Potty training doesn't have to be an arduous time. Put drops of blue food dye into the potty bowl and let them have fun with seeing it change color to “green”. For boys, throw a couple of Cheerios in the bowl for them to aim at.

Stay Positive
The last thing you want is for them to feel bad. Any pressure or ill feelings may cause resistance.

Keep it Regular
A great way to increase regularity and reduce constipation is to give them a probiotic supplement. It doesn't give the potty trainee the chance to “hold” it in, but yet is sensitive on his/her little tummy. Vidazorb® Belly Boost is a chewable tablet that tastes delicious and doesn't require refrigeration. Children love it!

Lots of Fluids
Water and juice — not soda and other sugary drinks — will help them stay regular want to potty. Prune juice would be especially helpful.

Seek out help from other parents or check out online communities, such as mom blogs, where topics like this are regular conversation. It is easier for parents to deal with potty training woes if they can share a trying experience or funny episode with others in the same boat.

Samantha is a mother and teacher with several degrees in education. A recent grad student, she is a lover of books, travel, yoga, animals, children, and fun.