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Tried and True
A Potty Training Refresher By Teri Brown
Delfina Cooney, a homeschooling mother from Portland, Ore., knows what happens if you try to push children before they are ready. "I have a very sensitive boy who was very disinterested in the idea of training," says Cooney. "I had seen a close friend get into severe power struggles with her son over potty training so I was hesitant to push him."
The Cooneys were right not to push their son. By waiting till he was ready, they were able to potty train him in a very short amount of time without any difficulty.
Dr. Glasser says it is imperative to remember that no matter what method you use, flexibility is important. "Even with these readiness signs, some children still need more time," she says. "Each child is unique."
According to Dr. Glasser, the most effective approach for most kids is typically to do the following:
- Read cues (notice readiness signals).
- Model (let your child watch you or willing older siblings).
- Teach skills (look at potty books and videos, introduce the potty, talk about the process).
- Encourage efforts.
- Treat accidents matter-of-factly, without shame or punishment.
- Be patient.
"Some kids may be experiencing toileting resistance or be especially negative about the process," says Dr. Glasser. "There are times when the best approach is to wait a while and try agin in a month or two. Also, some children respond well to small, tangible rewards for their efforts."