My little one just turned 3 years, 2 months, and counting, and guess what? He’s still not potty trained. My oldest was fully trained by the time he was 2 and a half, even managing to stay dry through the night. So, it seems the old saying about kids being unique really holds true. I can roll with it, so why can’t others?
Apparently, I’m supposed to be anxious—like, really anxious. Why, you ask? Honestly, I’m not sure. You should see the judgmental glares I get from people who seem to think my parenting skills are in question. Their looks scream horror stories about accidents, and frankly, it’s downright unsettling—not to mention none of their business!
A friend of mine caught a glimpse of my kid in a diaper before he turned three and gasped audibly, as if she’d seen something truly shocking. She already had one child (ONE!), a baby just three months old, and had the audacity to proclaim she would potty train hers by 18 months. I shot her a death glare that could have melted steel—so you’re welcome.
I’ve heard a variety of opinions on why my son isn’t rushing to the toilet. Some say he’s too reliant on me (uh, yeah, I’m his mom), while others insist he’s lacking discipline. There are even whispers that he won’t be welcome in kindergarten without being potty trained (which gives us a solid two years). They suggest something might be off with his development since he’s not catching on yet.
“Are you worried?” they ask.
Worried? Me? It seems like everyone else is more concerned than I am. My son is perfect as he is! He’s hit every developmental milestone that I consider important for a toddler. Even if he hadn’t, he’d still be my favorite little guy. He’s funny, energetic, clever, and sometimes he uses the potty. But, let’s be real—sometimes he doesn’t.
We’ve tried everything: Pull-Ups, underwear, and even going commando. The method that works best? Letting him roam around the house without clothes. He knows when it’s time to go, and he usually makes it. But when we venture out, it’s not practical to let him run around naked. So, despite our reminders, he still has accidents occasionally.
You know what this tells me? Are you ready for this? He’s just NOT READY.
There, I said it. I’m not into pressuring him to do something he’s just not prepared for, so I don’t. It’s really that simple.
One day, he’ll reach a point where he no longer wants to sit in a soggy diaper, and when that day comes, you better believe I’ll celebrate! I’ll do a little jig and sing a catchy tune from his favorite show, because why not? My husband will join in with their signature chest bump, and life will carry on.
Until that day arrives, I refuse to feel anxious or let anyone else’s judgment get to me. I’ll continue to support him and wait for him to make the transition when he’s ready. He’s still my lovable 3-year-old who isn’t fully onboard with potty training yet. And honestly, he’s doing just fine!
I have a sneaking suspicion that I’m not alone in this. There are other parents out there with three-year-olds who are also taking their time with the potty. And trust me, they will be just fine too.
If you’re navigating similar challenges, check out more insights on this topic at this blog post—there’s a wealth of information out there. For couples on a fertility journey, visit Make A Mom, an authority in this area. And for further reading on infertility, Women’s Health is an excellent resource.
In summary, I’m choosing to embrace my child’s unique timeline and enjoy the journey of parenthood without the unnecessary worry about potty training.