Potty Training: Yes, You Can Do This!

Potty training is an exciting milestone in your child’s development, but it can also feel like a daunting task for parents. The good news? You can do this! With patience, consistency, and a little bit of determination, your child will get there. After 23 years at Oakhill and helping hundreds of children through this stage, I’ve learned a few tried-and-true strategies to make the process smoother.

1. Start Cold Turkey

Once you decide to begin, commit fully. Say goodbye to diapers and pull-ups during the day. When your child wakes up, head straight to the potty and encourage them to sit. If you’re home, try placing them on the toilet every hour—not to force them to go, but to help them get comfortable with the process. At night, you may still want to use a pull-up for a while, but as soon as morning comes, it’s back to underwear.

2. Expect Resistance—Stay Calm

If your child protests, stay strong. Potty training is new and can feel strange at first. Offer reassurance and encouragement. Stay nearby, read a book, tell a story, or sing a silly song to make the experience more relaxed and positive.

3. Everyone Needs to Be on the Same Page

Consistency is key! If different caregivers take different approaches, potty training can quickly become frustrating for everyone—especially your child. Make sure the whole household is on board with the same plan, the same expectations, and the same level of patience.

4. It’s Harder on You Than It Is on Them

There will be accidents. There will be moments of frustration. But trust me—it will happen. Potty training requires patience and persistence, and while it may seem impossible at times, your child will get there.

If this is your time to begin potty training, good luck! Know that you are not alone, and with a little commitment and encouragement, you and your child will succeed!

Terri Ferris is a former Oakhill preschool teacher with 21 years of experience in early childhood education. Now serving as a Part-Time Community Engagement Liaison, she remains dedicated to supporting young learners and their families. Terri’s passion for teaching began in childhood, inspired by the educators who shaped her own journey. She believes every child should feel loved, encouraged, and capable of success. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and relaxing with a great movie. Her favorite quote:

"Students don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."

– John C. Maxwell