Top 10 Potty Training Tips From Our Friends At Pottiagogo

This time we talk to our friend Anne- Marie Perkins from Pottiagogo who shares her top ten potty training tips. 

The idea for Pottiagogo was born in 2016 when founder and new Mum, Anne-Marie Perkins, noticed there were no straightforward travel potty solutions made for her.

Looking at the shelves there were potty products to use but, could not find the right one to have in the car and at home. So Anne-Marie went on a mission to make the best travel potty for parents.

1. A Positive mindset

Children pick up on all of the subconscious signals you put out so try to adopt positive thinking and get ready for a lot of patience! Most importantly, please don't be embarrassed as all of us have been there. If your child picks up on your signals, they may become more cautious about potty training when out and about.

2. Remember, every child is different

Be patient and kind to both yourself and your child. You will both get it wrong at some point but that's all part of the learning together. Forgive yourself for not being able to get to the potty quick enough or forgetting to bring the wipes! Even second and third time parents have confessed to me that they get it wrong too. What worked for your first child and what you thought you knew the first time around may not suit your next child. 

3. Look for the Signs 

From around 15 months onwards, look for signs that they are ready.

This might be small things like pulling at a dirty nappy or telling you they have just done a wee or poo in their nappy. They may even say I don’t want my nappy. Your child may be so used to having a nappy on that they are a little worried about not doing a poo in their nappy. These are all signs that your child might be getting ready for the transition to use a toilet.

4. Be Prepared

Have a potty within arms reach no matter where you are.

Should your child want to go when you least expect it, (In my case, in a shopping aisle and on the beach miles away from the public loos!) you know you can grab and 'go'!

You may find it useful to have the same potty at home so your child can get used to it.

5. Practice by Playing

Play & practice 'going to the potty' as a game to play in readiness for the real thing might help your child get a head start in what to expect. Go and practice in the loo at grandma's, friends, play dates, aunts and uncles. This will help get your child used to different environments.

Get them used to the idea and have fun whilst learning.

6. Routine

Try building a potty routine into your everyday routine. Perhaps this is 5 minutes on the potty before bath-time or going to the toilet after every mealtime.

7. The Praise Effect 

I remember reading somewhere that you need to praise a person at least 8 times before they get it whereas a single criticism is easily remembered. So repeatedly praise your child again and again for even trying and your child will feel they are heading in the right direction.

8. Read Together

You may find looking and reading and talking through books together with your child about toilet training might help with some of your child's questions and your concerns.

We also used favourite bedtime books that were associated with relaxing when being able to relax was key. Toys can also help, but try not to use toys that require too much activity or they may become too distracted and go running off!

9. Potty Friendly Clothing

Dress your child in practical loose fitting clothing they can take off themselves, perhaps with elasticated waist or stretchy leggings. Skirts and long shirts can be helpful in situations where a bit of discretion may be needed and to help the child get into a more comfortable position.

 Things to Avoid

• Dungarees
• Tights
• T-shirts and vests to do up under the crotch
• Hand washed or dry cleaned only
• Clothing with zip or button

 10. Hygiene Excellence

From the start it is really important to set up lifelong habits for your child. Ensure that you wash your hands together with warm soap and water after every time your little one uses the potty - whether real or practice. Make sure you have hand sanitiser and wipes in your travel kit.

You will also need to teach them how to hold toilet roll. This is especially important if you are enrolling in any sort of day care.