Top Potty Training Tips That Save Time and Stress

Table of Contents

by Joseph Abu – Dad, Blogger, Survived Two Potty Training Wars

So, you’re staring at a brand new potty seat like it might bite you. Been there. Listen—if you’re secretly hoping your kid will just figure it out on their own, you’re in good company (I tried that. Spoiler: it didn’t work).

I’ve done this twice, and let’s just say, I learned the hard way so you don’t have to. Here’s how to make it suck less—and maybe even laugh about it later.

When’s Your Kid Ready? (Don’t Rush, Seriously)

Look, there’s no magical age. Most kids get the hang of it somewhere between 18 months and 3 years, but some are late bloomers. The real trick is watching for those little “I’m ready” clues:

• - Dry diapers for a couple hours at a time? Good sign.
• - Suddenly obsessed with the toilet? Even better.
• - Telling you when they go? Jackpot.
• - Pants up, pants down—can they do it alone?
• - Hiding in a corner to poop. (Classic.)

My son? Showed all the signs at 2, but we waited ‘til he was closer to 2-and-a-half. Night and day difference.

My Go-To Potty Training Tricks (Tested on Real Kids)

1. Chill Out, No Pressure

Don’t go from diapers to full-on boot camp overnight. Ease into it. Chat about the potty while changing diapers, let them sit on it (clothes on, no pressure), read some silly potty books. Curiosity beats anxiety.

2. Let Them Pick the Gear

Some kids want a little throne in the bathroom. Others want the “big kid” seat on the real toilet. If they help pick it, they’ll use it. And get a little stool. Trust me, dangling legs are not fun for anyone.

3. Stick to a Loose Routine

Routines help, but don’t get militant. Try sitting them on the potty first thing in the morning, after meals, before naps, and, yeah, every couple hours. Gentle reminders go farther than nagging. “Hey, let’s try before story time!” works way better than a countdown.

4. Hype Up the Small Wins

Did they just sit on the potty without screaming? High five! Seriously, celebrate every step. My go-tos: sticker charts, goofy victory dances, and the occasional off-key potty song. Just skip the candy—trust me, you don’t want to start that habit.

5. Accidents Happen (Don’t Freak)

They WILL pee on the rug. Or worse. Don’t scold, don’t shame. Just shrug and say, “No biggie, next time we’ll try earlier.” Freak-outs = setbacks. Calm vibes = progress.

6. Dress for Success

This is not the time for complicated overalls or skinny jeans. Elastic waistbands, easy-off shorts, dresses for girls—make life easy for everyone.

7. Nighttime is a Whole Other Beast

Daytime comes first. Don’t stress if they’re still in diapers at night for a while. Most kids just need more time. Wait ‘til you see dry mornings before ditching nighttime pull-ups.

8. Public Toilets: Welcome to the Jungle

The first time out can be a horror show—loud flushes, weird smells, echoey everything. Pack a travel potty or seat, wipes, extra clothes, and maybe a hazmat suit (kidding… kind of). Practice the scary noises at home first.

Watch Out for These Rookie Mistakes:

• - Starting before they’re ready. All you get is a power struggle. Don’t bother.
• - Comparing your kid to the neighbor’s potty prodigy. Just don’t.
• - Throwing in the towel after a bad day. Regression is totally normal. Deep breaths.

My “Oops” Story (So You Feel Better)

With my daughter, I tried to wing it. Result? Total chaos. Tears (hers and mine). We hit reset with a plan, routine, and a metric ton of patience. Once I chilled out, she did, too. Sticker charts for the win.

You Got This—One Flush at a Time

Yeah, it’s messy. And hilarious. And sometimes you’ll want to scream. But you’re not alone, and honestly, you’ll both survive. Tomorrow is a new day (and maybe a dry pair of pants).

Ready to dive in?

• - Watch for those readiness signs
• - Pick a setup your kid actually likes
• - Find your groove with a routine
• - Celebrate the tiny victories

Above all—love your kid, cheer them on, and don’t sweat the small stuff. Seriously.

Want more real talk and less Pinterest-perfect advice? Come hang out on my newsletter. I’ve got your back.

Flush with confidence,

Joseph Abu