Potty Preparedness With A Top Pediatrician

A new book on potty training tips makes the process less stressful--and a lot more fun

By The LifeMinute Team

April 7, 2016

Struggling with potty training your child? So is every other parent, according to pediatrician and mother of three Dr. Laura Jana, who is also co-author of book titled 'It's You and Me Against The Pee'. "It's not just about potty training, but potty learning. So many parents dread the process when it can actually be fun," she says.

The Right Mindset

Dr. Jana stresses the importance of setting realistic expectations. "Shift your mindset and take some time to understand that this is a learning process. It takes some time and there will be inevitable success as well as obstacles. Focus less on the accidents and messes." She also recommends choosing a book that helps introduce some of the concepts around using the potty to guide you through.

Potty Preparedness

You know there will be some accidents along the way. So have the supplies on hand that make it easier. Some smart options to have handy include:

-A potty ring or seat

-A step stool to create a feeling of independence

-Training pants on hand such as Pampers Easy Ups

"A lot of children get very exited about the idea of wearing big boy or big girl underwear and having pants that have that underwear-like look and feel, which can help them master this important milestone," says the doctor. "You can also keep in mind that you should have a team spirit about the whole thing. You're your child's teammate but you're also their coach. Remember, celebrate victories, anticipate setbacks, and when you have them encourage your child to get up and try again."

Signs of Readiness

Encourage your child's developmental readiness. Look out for some of those simple signs including your child's ability to toddle their way to the bathroom, to be able to pull up and down their pants, to start to express in words what they are feeling and what they want to do.

"The other thing that really helps,and I find every parent that has ever potty trained knows what I'm talking about when I say, if you see your child stop suddenly and become aware of the sensation of peeing and pooping," says Dr. Jana, "...and certainly when they start to be upset by messes or wetness, that can go a long way toward motivating them toward accomplishing this important milestone."

For more information on Dr. Jana's book and more tips on potty training, go to Pampers.com You can also go to the Pampers Facebook page and look in the Sunday paper to find a three dollar coupon off of Pampers Easy Ups.

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