Potty Training Tuesday # 2

Consistency

The key to ANY method of potty training is to be consistent.  It doesn't matter if you are using diapers or  disposable training pants (pull ups) or underwear you need to keep everything as consistent as possible.  Constantly switching back and forth between diapers and underwear is confusing for a toddler who is probably already confused about what is suddenly expected of them.

If you child is in any type of childcare situation, be it daycare, home care, a baby sit or even grandma, it is imperative that you are all on the same page about potty training.  You need to work together to follow the same methods in both settings.  Make sure that all caregivers, even the teenager down the street who babysits on Saturday morning while you go to yoga, know that your child is potty training,  Make them aware of the method and schedule of the child's potty needs.  Consistency in the choice of words used to describe body parts and functions is also important.  

Now, there are obviously going to be exceptions to the consistency rule.  When you are just starting out and even when you are getting close to your potty training goal, there will be times when having your child in underwear just isn't realistic.  Don't be afraid to put your child in a diaper for naps, at night or when you are going in the car.  But switching back and forth from diapers to underwear when you are at home and for no apparent reason will confuse your child and ultimately delay the process.

Consistency isn't a magic trick that will ensure quick, easy potty training but it will make things much easier for your child and for you!!

Stay tuned for more tips, tricks and advice every Tuesday!  And please do share your own experiences!  I am always looking for ways to make potty training easier for myself, not only at work, but also at home as I will soon be jumping in head first to potty train Liam!