Congratulations! Your child has officially transitioned to wearing underwear! No more buying diapers, no more wrestling reluctant toddlers to change them, and no more packing for lengthy outings as if you’re preparing for a month-long trip. You can finally say goodbye to the discomfort of changing diapers in grim public restrooms or the cramped backseat of your vehicle.
You’ve triumphed over potty training: sticker charts, cleaning up soiled underwear, bribery, pleading, taking breaks, and dealing with well-meaning but unsolicited advice. You might think that this chapter of your life is closed, and you’ll never have to concern yourself with the bodily functions of your child again.
But here’s the reality check: those of us who have moved beyond diapers know that potty training is just the beginning. In truth, you will find yourself closely monitoring your child’s bathroom behaviors for several years to come. Children still have much to learn about using the toilet successfully, independently, and—most importantly—neatly.
Honestly, I find myself hesitating to potty train my toddler—not merely due to the challenges of the process but because of the myriad of new issues it introduces. I could easily keep him in diapers for as long as possible, but then again, there’s preschool and the need to foster independence.
Here’s what you should be prepared for:
- The Constant Need for Bathroom Supervision
You may naively believe that once they’re out of diapers, your child will use the restroom independently. Not quite. They often require reminders for years and, especially for bowel movements, they prefer company. - Public Restroom Navigation
If you thought changing diapers on a germ-ridden public changing table was bad, wait until you see them use public toilets. It’s a whole new level of discomfort. More than once, I’ve considered equipping my child with rubber gloves before entering a restroom. - Involving Others in Potty Time
My kids become overly reliant on my assistance in the bathroom—perhaps too much so. They can be hesitant to allow babysitters or family members to help. While I understand the intimacy of the situation, I do need some freedom! - Accidents at School
There’s a reason schools require a change of clothes from preschool through kindergarten. Even older kids have accidents, especially when they are preoccupied in a classroom setting. Many do not recognize the urgency of their need and will postpone until it’s too late. - The Potty Dance and Withholding
Oh, the infamous potty dance! My third-grader still exhibits this behavior from time to time. The irony lies in how frequently they deny needing to go, despite their obvious discomfort. - Nighttime Accidents
Daytime potty training does not guarantee nighttime success for many children. While I’ve been fortunate with my kids staying dry most nights soon after daytime training, I know many others require diapers or protection for years. - Assistance with Wiping
Shortly after potty training, it becomes evident just how much help your young child needs after using the toilet. Many parents report that this assistance can be required for several years—averaging around five years based on informal surveys. - Aim Issues
Despite all efforts, my boys still manage to create puddles on the bathroom floor several times a week. When questioned, they adamantly deny any wrongdoing. - Hand-Washing Habits
Kids often view hand-washing as optional. When they do wash their hands, they might create a mini flood or use an entire bottle of soap. Supervision during this process will be necessary for a significant time. - Car Ride Emergencies
No matter how many times you ask if they need to go before a car trip—or even if you force them to go—there will inevitably come a moment in the journey when someone urgently needs the bathroom. Often, this occurs just as your baby drifts off to sleep or when you are miles away from an exit.
The bright side is that it does improve over time. I can’t recall the last time I had to remind my 9-year-old to use the restroom; he manages public restrooms just fine (though I still have to remind him to wash his hands properly). My 3-year-old is only a few weeks into potty training and is doing well, though I know this could change at any moment. I anticipate disposing of the last of the diapers within months, ushering in a newly trained child.
However, this will also mark the beginning of several more years of fun challenges, which I am not looking forward to.
For more insights on topics related to home insemination, check out this article and learn about various methods available, including resources from Make A Mom, who are experts in this field. Additionally, UCSF’s Center provides excellent information for those on a similar journey.
Summary
Potty training is just the beginning of a long journey with your child’s bathroom habits, which will require ongoing supervision and support. While it may seem like a victory to be free from diapers, parents soon realize that the challenges of potty training extend far beyond the initial phase. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate some of the stress and prepare you for what lies ahead.