The Ultimate Guide to Potty Training: Methods for Every Family

Potty training—it’s a big step in your little one’s journey to independence, and let’s be honest, it’s a bit of an adventure for you too! Whether you’re excited to ditch diapers or feeling totally overwhelmed (or both!), figuring out the best way to tackle this milestone is key.

In this guide, we’ll break down three popular potty training methods—the child-led approach, the routine-based approach, and the potty-training vacation—and help you find the one that feels right for your family.

Is Your Child Ready to Potty Train?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about timing. Potty training typically happens between 18 and 30 months, but hey, every kiddo is on their own timeline. Here’s what to watch for:

• Dry diapers for a couple of hours at a time.
• Curiosity about the bathroom (or trying to follow you in there—yep, it happens!).
• Being able to pull pants up and down without a meltdown.
• Communicating when they need to go (even if it’s just pointing or doing the “potty dance”).

If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to gear up. Stock up on a potty seat, a step stool, some cute undies, and maybe some extra patience—it’ll all come in handy.

Picking Your Potty Training Style

Alright, now that you’re prepped, let’s get into the methods. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s all about what works best for your family’s vibe and schedule.

1. The Child-Led Approach

This one’s all about letting your kiddo call the shots. No pressure, no timelines—just following their lead. Here’s when this might be the way to go:

• You’re in no rush to say goodbye to diapers.
• You like a chill, go-with-the-flow parenting style.
• Your child is already showing interest in the potty.

Kids usually make it pretty clear when they’re ready. They might start taking off their diapers or announcing when they need to go. Even once they’re using the potty, they’ll still need help with things like wiping, flushing, and washing up. This method is great if you’re not up against deadlines like daycare or school requirements.

2. The Routine-Based Approach

If you’re more of a “let’s have a plan” kind of parent, this approach might be right for you. It combines your guidance with your child’s readiness cues. This method works well if:

• Your toddler isn’t super into the potty yet but you’re ready to start.
• You like creating structure and routines in your day.

The idea is to introduce regular potty breaks—before meals, after naps, and before heading out the door. It’s like setting a potty rhythm! Make it fun with special books, songs, or rewards (stickers, anyone?). Celebrate those wins, no matter how small, and keep things positive.

3. The Potty-Training Vacation

For families ready to go all-in, the potty-training vacation is an intense but effective option. Think of it as a potty boot camp. This method is great if:

• Your child is 3+ years old and needs to be potty-trained ASAP (hello, preschool deadlines!).
• You have a few days to focus entirely on potty training.

Here’s the gist: clear your schedule, say goodbye to diapers (except for sleep), and let your kiddo go bottomless. Watch closely for their “gotta go” signals and guide them to the potty every time. Accidents? They’ll happen, and that’s okay—just stay calm and gently remind them where the potty is. Once they’re getting the hang of it, you can start introducing undies and taking short outings to build their confidence.

Your Potty Training Journey, Your Way

No matter which method you choose, remember that every kid is different—and so is every potty training adventure. Patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor will be your best friends along the way. And if things feel tough, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Certified Potty Training Professional (like me!) or your child’s doctor for extra support.

Want more help? Take a look at my potty training bundle, which includes specific video instructions, a cheat sheets and a phone consultation!

At the end of the day, your love and encouragement are what make this milestone a success. You’ve got this!