Potty Training Without the Power Struggle: Encouraging Your Child to Use the Toilet

Potty training can feel like an uphill battle, especially when your child resists using the toilet. While it's tempting to push the process forward, forcing it often leads to more resistance and frustration. The key is to encourage your child to try using the potty while keeping the experience positive and stress-free. Here are some strategies to help:

Watch for the signs of readiness. If your child wakes up from a long nap with a dry diaper, or notices when the diaper is wet or soiled, as well as gets curious about other people going to the toiled, it might be time for you to introduce the potty! Just make sure there is nothing else big going on in their lives (like new baby sibling, a big move, family visiting, vacation, etc.)

Make It Fun and Engaging

Many kids resist potty training simply because they don't see the appeal. Turn it into an adventure by using tools like a potty watch, which plays fun tunes and reminds them to take bathroom breaks. You can also let them pick out a special potty chair with their favorite character or color to make it feel like their own.

Establish a Routine

Set a schedule for potty breaks, such as after meals, before naps, and before bedtime. Consistency helps reinforce the habit without making it feel like a demand. If they don't go, that's okay—just remind them to try again later.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise and small rewards can go a long way. A sticker chart, special high-fives, or a fun dance every time they try (even if they don’t succeed) keeps the experience encouraging rather than stressful.

Lead by Example

Let your child see older siblings or parents using the toilet. Kids learn by imitation, so normalizing the process can make them more willing to give it a try.

Let Them Have Some Control

Offer choices where possible: “Do you want to use the big toilet or your potty chair?” or “Would you like to flush, or should I?” Giving them control over small aspects helps them feel empowered rather than forced.

Keep It Low-Pressure

If your child resists, don’t force them. Take a break and try again in a few days or weeks. A relaxed approach reduces anxiety and makes success more likely in the long run.

Make Books and Videos Part of the Process

There are plenty of children’s books and videos that make potty training fun and relatable. Reading a potty-themed story or watching a short video together can help them understand the process in a lighthearted way.

Be Patient and Expect Setbacks

Accidents will happen, and that’s okay. Stay calm, reassure your child, and remind them that learning takes time. Reacting negatively can create fear and hesitation, making the process harder.

Celebrate Progress

Even small wins deserve recognition. Whether they sit on the potty for the first time, tell you they need to go, or have a dry day, celebrate their achievements to build confidence and motivation.

Every child potty trains at their own pace, and pressuring them can backfire. By making the experience fun, giving them some control, and keeping it positive, you can help your child transition to using the toilet with confidence. Stay patient, trust the process, and remember—you won’t be changing diapers forever!

Here are some potty book recommendations:

• Where Do You Poop? by Agnese Baruzzi 

• Let's Go to the Potty! by Allison Jandu

• We Poop on the Potty! by Little Grasshopper Books

• The New Potty by Mercer Mayer