Potty Training with Conscious Discipline

Potty training can be a stressful time for both caregivers and children, but it doesn’t have to be!
Potty training should only begin once your child has shown interest. It will be easier for both you and your child if it is done on their time and not forced.

Signs of potty readiness are:
-Diaper stays dry most of the day
-The child lets you know when they are wet or dry
-Your child can pull their pants up and down independently

Below are a few scenarios and how to handle them using Conscious Discipline.

If your child has an accident, avoid saying “Did you pee in your pants?” Instead try “Oops! You
had an accident. Underpants are for keeping clean and dry.”

If you want your child to use the bathroom do to time restraints, avoid saying “I need you to go
potty.” Instead try, “It is important to use the potty now. You can use the big potty or the little
potty. Which do you choose?”

If you notice your child is doing the potty dance avoid saying “Do you need to use the potty?”Instead try “Your body is doing this (demonstrate). What is your body telling you? Or Your body is letting you know there is pee or poop ready to come out.”

When your child has successfully used the potty avoid saying “I’m so proud of you!” and instead
try: “You did it! You listened to your body, went to the bathroom, pulled down your bottoms, sat
on the toilet, and went potty! Way to go!”

For more helpful tips using Conscious Discipline, check out their book Potty Mastery.