Potty Training a Toddler: What Actually Worked for Us (And What We Learned Along the Way)
Potty training is one of those milestones that feels both exciting and intimidating. Everyone has opinions. Every child is different. And somehow, you’re expected to figure it all out while still managing everyday life.
When we started potty training, I quickly realized that what helped most was having a framework to lean on and then giving ourselves permission to adjust as we went.
Most of our approach was inspired by Oh Crap! Potty Training by Jamie Glowacki, combined with real-life advice from my friends, family & social media community. This post is not rigid by any means, and only a guide for what worked for us.
Why We Used the Oh Crap Method as Our Starting Point
My wonderful mom friend introduced me to the Oh Crap approach written by Jamie Glowacki. It treats potty training as a learning process, not a one-day event. The book breaks training into “blocks,” starting with awareness and gradually building independence.
We didn’t follow it word-for-word, but we used:
- the block structure
- the idea of learning cues before pushing independence
- the mindset that accidents are part of the process
Visit her website linked here to learn more!
How We Approached the First Few Days (Block One)
The early days were very much Block One: no diapers during the day, staying close to home, and focusing on awareness.
This stage was about learning:
- what it feels like before needing to go
- how to get to the potty
- how to communicate what’s happening
Yes, We Used Rewards, And They Helped
While Oh Crap de-emphasizes rewards, we found that sticker books worked really well for us.
Not in a bribe-y way, but as:
- positive reinforcement
- a confidence booster
- something tangible to celebrate progress
Some kids thrive on rewards, others don’t. This is where listening to your child matters more than following a method perfectly.
Pull-Ups for Naps and Bedtime
One thing that helped reduce stress for everyone:
👉 Pull-ups for naps and bedtime.
Nighttime dryness is developmental and separate from daytime potty training. Using pull-ups:
- protected sleep
- reduced pressure
- kept morale high
Daytime potty training can be successful even if nights take longer.
What Made the Biggest Difference for Us
1. Watching Patterns, Not the Clock
Instead of forcing timed potty breaks, we paid attention to cues:
- sudden stillness
- hiding
- pausing play
Gentle prompting worked better than constant reminders.
2. Consistency Over Perfection
Some days felt like huge wins. Other days felt like setbacks.
What helped most:
- using the same language
- staying neutral about accidents
- not changing expectations daily
Progress isn’t linear and that’s okay.
3. Community Wisdom Matters
Some of the most reassuring advice came from other parents:
- regression happens
- taking a pause is okay
- you’re not behind
Everything We Bought
Here’s what was genuinely helpful:
Potty Training Essentials
- A small floor potty (easy access early on)
- A seat insert for the regular toilet
- A step stool for independence
Clean-Up + Prep
- Extra wipes
- Paper towels (for quick accidents)
- Laundry detergent you don’t mind using often
- Easy-on, easy-off pants
Sleep & Outings
- Pull-ups for naps and bedtime
- Spare clothes for quick changes
You don’t need everything but having the basics ready helps reduce stress.
POTTY TRAINING ESSENTIALS
Final Thoughts
Potty training doesn’t have to be perfect to be successful.
If you’re in the middle of potty training or gearing up for it, know this: you are definitely not alone! Good luck to all my parents out there, you got this!
