As a parent of three young children, I understand that the journey of potty training can feel overwhelming. If you’re gearing up for this significant milestone, here’s a candid look at what to expect.
Preparation is Key
Start by gathering your supplies: grab a poster board and some markers to create a chart that outlines each day of the week. Your little one will appreciate neat lines—trust me on this. Stock up on stickers; you’ll need a variety, including characters from their favorite shows like Star Wars, Peppa Pig, and Paw Patrol. Aim for about 3,000 stickers, as they come in packs of 500.
Next, choose their favorite underwear. Be prepared to buy more pairs than you think necessary, as options at places like Target are endless.
The Weekend Ahead
Once you have everything ready, brace yourself. You might want to consider a quick stop at the liquor store to prepare for the chaos ahead.
Lay out all the new underwear because your toddler will likely have a little accident in each one. Your resolve will be tested, and you’ll find yourself repeating, “This is worth it,” more times than you can count.
Your partner, who may have started with the same enthusiasm, could either step up or retreat to a quieter part of the house, leaving you to manage the situation. Meanwhile, your older children will likely try to assist but will mostly just hinder progress, asking for treats and attention.
At some point, your toddler may launch into a heartfelt speech about how much they adore diapers and how mean it is to take them away.
The Breakthrough Moment
Eventually, your child will manage to pee in the potty for a brief moment, only to cut it short and then have an accident on the floor shortly after. But don’t lose hope! With persistence, they will begin using the potty consistently.
After what feels like an eternity of training (though it’s usually just a few days), you’ll finally emerge triumphant. Although they might still need pull-ups for naps and bedtime, you’ll be mostly free from diapers. Just be prepared for the occasional setback, like when they wet the bed after watching a scary movie.
And with that, you’ll have navigated one of parenting’s many trials.
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Summary
Potty training a 3-year-old can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. With the right preparation and a dose of humor, you can navigate the ups and downs of this important milestone. Keep your supplies handy, remain patient, and enjoy the journey.