Potty Training Shenanigans

Photo by S. St. George

Do you remember the days of potty training? The stress of not knowing where or when your little would need to "go"? Setting the timer to ring every fifteen minutes so you could coach, cajole or cheer them to victory? Over and over and over. The embarrassment of them picking a spot that wasn't quite appropriate. Like a tree in the yard of a young classmate's birthday party? The sheer number of accidents and subsequent never ending laundry loads of clothing and bedding was astounding.

We are in the midst of those days. But as spectators this time. It's quite nice, really, to not be in charge. Our grand littles are potty training. One family inspired the other. Or is it a competition? If so, it's a friendly one and one they will both (eventually) win.

But I cannot lie. The stories my daughters have shared during this time have kept my husband and I laughing. Not only is our group chat popping off with poop successes and the occasional accident report, but the occasional frantic call or FaceTime have been bright spots. The other week, my middle daughter called laughing to report that her daughter, watching the dogs do their business, squatted and did hers as well. Our oldest sent us a photo of our oldest grandson coaching his little brother on the best way to pee off of the deck. Boys have it so much easier!

Unsplash photo by Jacob McGowan

I bribed our daughters with mini-M&M's and chocolate chips when they went through the process as toddlers. They both love chocolate to this day. Our son thought peeing in the porta potty urinal was fun when we went camping so that was his incentive. Using cheerios as targets made it interesting and improved his aim. Whoever cleans his bathroom should thank me!

I know when you're in the midst of the process with the littles, it feels unending. You wonder if they will EVER get it. But they do! Soon, there are more successes than misses. And while you still pack extra clothes on outings, you aren't buying or washing diapers anymore. HUGE win!

My dear friend recommended this book to me. Her daughter had great success using it with her little. I immediately forwarded it to my daughters who have implemented many of the suggestions contained within the pages. It's a big skill that takes a lot of patience and practice on both sides. I'm happy to report that both of my grand littles are doing well and mastering the art of using the potty!

Do you have fun stories of when your kids were learning this important life skill? I'd love to hear about it. Drop me a line at stacy@wordsbystacy.com or comment on social media.