Everyone will likely always remember the pandemic for the tragedies it brought. So many people were ill, isolated, or even perished. There was very little to celebrate. However, some people still managed to find a reason to smile. Additionally, thanks to social media platforms, people figured out how to spread that cheer. For example, in September of 2020, a family shared a TikTok video of their toddler potty training, and people found it so hilarious that it only took a few days for the video to gain 10 million views.
Joy in a Dark Time
The video captioned, “Not sure why he was doing this voice,” quickly brought smiles to the nation. It was a dark time in history, but the number of views soared. The little guy’s response to potty training was adorable. However, it likely appealed to the masses because many people can relate to the trials and tribulations of potty training.
In the video posted by parents Dani and Matt DiVito, the toddler can be seen conversing with his dad in which he explains exactly what happened while he was on the potty. “I didn’t poop—I peed!” He repeats to his dad incessantly. What brings his dad to the brink of tears, is the hilarious accent the potty-training toddler uses. The tears of amusement eventually fall from Matt’s eyes, leading little man to wonder why his dad was upset. “Sad daddy?” He asks. However, his father joyfully assures him that he’s not sad, in fact he’s the exact opposite.
Daunting Tasks
Potty training can be one of the most trying things for a parent to do with their child. Parents invest into seeking advice, learning silly songs, or reading endless stories, hoping to encourage their little ones to get excited about potty training. The result is usually not without numerous accidents or messes all over the floor. Meanwhile, the potty training process can be just as troubling for the toddler. Luckily, every parent has gone through it, and some have even shared a few things they’ve learned about potty training along the way.
Potty Training Experts
First and foremost, toddlers don’t develop bladder or bowel movement control until 18-24 months. It’s important to note that not every child will develop at the same rate as their peers or siblings. There is no cause for alarm. However, it’s advisable to speak with your child’s doctor in the event that they are significantly behind their peers or siblings. Because bladder control doesn’t develop until around this age, starting too early may cause frustration for both parent and child.
Potty Training Tips
Next, Pampers and other parenting support companies offer many tricks and tips that might help with potty training. One tip interestingly applies to many aspects of life and helps them feel respected and valued, allowing them to be involved. Toddlers are more likely to be excited to try something as daunting as potty training if they can participate in the planning process. For example, picking out their own potty or potty training storybooks may help them get excited about the big change.
Another helpful strategy is to ensure unobstructed access to the potty. Some parents have tried placing multiple potties in their homes and/or car so that their children can use the restroom no matter where they are. Meanwhile, other parents have found carrying a singular potty from room to room helpful. Particularly parents who don’t appreciate their homes being full of clutter. Another upside to this method is that it draws attention to the potty every time the family moves to a new room.
Potty training is much easier to accomplish when children have visuals such as a mapped-out schedule, including potty breaks or a sticker reward chart so they can track their progress. This may mean encouraging them to sit on the potty before and after sleeping, eating, or playing.
Don’t Be Afraid to Celebrate
This tip, which also applies to every aspect of life, is to celebrate. Life is full of good and bad but it’s important to celebrate the small wins and bring attention toward gratitude. Give kids ample praise when they’ve succeeded in using the potty. This will reinforce that they’re doing what they should be and give everyone in the house a reason to be happy, despite things not going according to plan.
Another tip is to lead by example, another important tip for all aspects of life. Allowing children to see that all the adults in the house use a toilet will make them more enthusiastic about doing so themselves. Part of that includes letting them watch so they can see how it’s done. Although some parents may feel weird about this, kids learn best through first-hand accounts.
Furthermore, reading a story or singing a song on the potty might help pass the time. As a result, children might be willing to sit still for longer, increasing the likelihood of success.
Potty Training Tips for Boys
For parents of boys, be aware that they often need more time than girls to learn to differentiate between the sensations in their bodies. As such, be patient with them and yourself. One way to counteract that is to have them start by sitting down to pee. Some other helpful boy hints may include using Cheerios to help with aim, using dish soap so they can watch it foam up, or adding blue food coloring so they can turn it green.
Lastly, spending plenty of time naked time has had high success rates, particularly for toddlers who struggle with dexterity or fine motor skills and have trouble pulling down their pants. Also, remind them that everything from potty training to bowel movements is normal, and everyone goes through it. This will help them feel more comfortable and confident.