Common Mistakes when Potty Training

Potty training can be a challenging milestone for both parents and children. The "Oh Crap" method, developed by Jamie Glowacki, offers a straightforward and effective approach. However, parents often encounter pitfalls that can hinder their progress. Here are some of the biggest mistakes to avoid when using the "Oh Crap" method, and how to stay on track for potty training success.

Waiting Until They Are "Ready"

Many parents wait for clear signs of readiness before starting potty training, but according to Glowacki, this isn’t always necessary. While some children show every sign of being ready, others may never do so. Signs of readiness can increase your chances of success, but they aren’t essential.

What to Do Instead: Begin potty training when it feels right for your family, even if your child isn’t showing all the typical signs of readiness. Consistent and patient training can lead to success even without those signs.

Giving a Diaper When They Ask for One

Offering a diaper when your child asks for one can undermine the potty training process. If your child feels they have the option to revert to diapers, they may lack the motivation to use the potty consistently.

What to Do Instead: Once you start potty training, commit to it fully. Avoid reverting to diapers unless absolutely necessary (e.g., nighttime or travel). Encourage your child to use the potty each time.

Leaving the Potty Seat Out

Some parents place a potty seat in the living room or other common areas to help their child get used to it. However, Glowacki advises against this practice. Children often see the potty seat as a toy holder rather than a toilet.

What to Do Instead: Keep the potty seat in the bathroom. This helps your child associate the bathroom with the act of using the toilet, establishing a clear and consistent routine.

Using a Rewards System

While it might seem intuitive to use rewards and potty training charts with stickers, Glowacki advises against it. Relying on rewards can shift the focus from internal motivation to external validation.

What to Do Instead: Provide positive encouragement and praise your child for their efforts and successes. This helps them feel proud of their accomplishments and fosters intrinsic motivation to use the potty.

Saying “It’s Okay” to Have an Accident

Accidents are a natural part of the potty training process, and it's important not to punish or shame your child for them. However, repeatedly saying “it’s okay” might send the message that using the potty isn’t essential.

What to Do Instead: Gently remind your child that poop and pee go in the potty. Use phrases like, “Oops, next time let's try to get to the potty,” to reinforce the behavior you want to see without making your child feel bad.

The "Oh Crap" potty training method is designed to be straightforward and effective, but like any approach, it requires consistency and patience. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can stay on track and help your child successfully transition from diapers to using the potty.

• Don't wait for perfect signs of readiness.

• Avoid reverting to diapers once potty training has started.

• Keep the potty seat in the bathroom to establish proper associations.

• Encourage and praise your child without relying on external rewards.

• Handle accidents with gentle reminders rather than saying “it’s okay.”

With these strategies, you can navigate the challenges of potty training and support your child in achieving this important milestone. For personalized guidance and support, consider consulting a potty training expert who can tailor advice to your child's specific needs. Happy potty training! 🚽✨