Yolande

Let's face it, potty training is probably one of the hardest things you are going to face with your toddler or preschooler. If you found this page, you have most likely been googling this potty training topic for a while, and weren't as lucky as the mom at playgroup who claims "he just potty trained himself". There are a million tips out there on how to potty train your child, and all the information is pretty much the same. So instead, let's talk about the possible mistakes you could be making during potty training. Because in my opinion when it comes to potty training, there is a lot more you can be doing wrong, than doing right, that may be the cause of unsuccessful potty training. Here are the most common mistakes parents make when beginning potty training.

1. Potty Training when your child is not ready.

If you want potty training to be successful, then your child has to be ready. Potty training a 15 month old and wondering why he or she is not getting it, is frustrating for both you and your child. I have seen 15 month month olds potty trained, but it's not very common. Most children are ready at 22 months of age, so trying before then may be a challenge.

2. Allowing diapers to be worn "sometimes."

This is a huge no no. If you have made the commitment to potty train your child, then you have to make a promise not to revert back to diapers. No matter what! What kind of message are you sending your child if you expect him to use the potty, but slap on a diaper when you have to go to out? There are plenty of options for outings during training, if you absolutely have to go out. You can get a travel seats that fold in your purse and even piddle pads for car seats (pictured below).

3. Going out during training.

If you don't have to go out, then don't. Make a commitment to stay home. Potty training is no joke! and treating it as such will lead to failure. If you are serious about this, then you have to commit to a long weekend or do it during a time that you can stay home. The first couple of days you are going to have major accidents, so it is best to be home. It's easier for you and it's less stressful for your little one.

4. Not trying long enough.

A lot of parents get frustrated after a day or 2 of messy floors, constipation, accidents, etc. I know, because I was one of those parents. Some children may need a little more time. It took my daughter 5 days to be pee trained, and 7 to be poop trained. If I gave up after a the first EXTREMELY horrible 3 days, she wouldn't be potty trained right now. Give your child at least a week. It usually doesn't take any longer than that.

5. Not getting help, when it's not working.

This is a biggie. Many parents just keep trying over and over, and potty training continues to be a massive fail. Some kids are more stubborn than others. Some are defiant or just really afraid of the potty. With these kids, the traditional potty training tips are just not going to work. Bare bottom methods, or forcing your child to potty train may be traumatic for a child that has such fears. Knowing how to respond to these types of situations, will be crucial to your success.

If you have tried potty training on your own and have been unsuccessful then I would recommend a good potty training book or guide. There is nothing wrong with getting a book with tips, a program, guide etc. There is a reason these things are available, because not all children are easy to train, and sometimes without help or guidance you will just keep facing the same road blocks. I suggest getting something that is going to give you a step by step process. My favorite is the "Start Potty Training" program. Here is my review of it, as well as other popular 3 day potty training programs.