9 Helpful Potty-Training Techniques For Toddlers

Last reviewed: November 6, 2026. Checked against current guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org).

A lot a parent has to go through to ensure their child is being taught what they need to be during that age. If you leave something to teach them later, it can create problems.

One of the biggest challenges the parents face when raising a toddler is potty training them. Unfortunately, it may take the parent some time to understand how to train their child effectively.

Therefore, we are with the best nine helpful potty-training techniques for toddlers to ease your problems. Keep reading to understand each technique and then decide which one would work the best with your child.

Not sure if your toddler is ready yet? Start with our guide on when to start potty training and the 10 signs your toddler is ready. Most children show signs of bladder and bowel control between 18 and 24 months. In the U.S., the average age to start is 2 to 3 years, and most children are trained by age 4.

9 Helpful Potty-Training Techniques For Toddlers

1. Never Rush

This is a mistake that many parents make by taking their children to the toilet when they are not even feeling anything. It is best to observe your child’s behavior, and there will be some signs that will tell you that he wants to go to the toilet.

Always focus and your child and be a part of their training experience. Don’t just take them to the restroom and leave them on the toilet. Make sure to feel that your child is fully comfortable.

2. Make The Training More Like An Education

To ensure that your child is comfortable telling you that they want to go to the toilet, never force them to use it. Instead, use this topic to educate them, which would fascinate them to use it.

Go potty seat shopping with your child and get colorful and bright underwear. This would encourage them and excite them to use the products.

3. Turn It Into A Routine

Don’t carry out the training only for a day or two and then get busy in your life. Instead, try to make a schedule and take your child to the toilet every time they need to poop or pee. This would turn into a routine that your child would also want to follow.

The best thing about turning it into a routine is that your child would never hesitate to tell you that they want to use the toilet. Then, they will start showing up to you and ask you to accompany them.

4. Do The Training During The Best Time Of The Day

When the potty routine is set and comes into effect, you can use this chance to change it to the best time for going to the toilet. This may not be effective every day, and not everyone has to go to the potty before bedtime.

However, the chances of using the toilet after waking up are high. So that can come into effect. Therefore, as your child wakes up, it would be recommended to take them to the toilet and let them relax. When you do this, the child will think is what they have to do every day after waking up.

5. Target Practice Is Must For Boys

If you have a boy who needs potty training, you must carry some extra effort. Many boys find it easier to start by sitting down to pee, and then stand once they are better at it. When you train your son to pee while standing up, they may spill it everywhere. Therefore, it is essential to teach them how to do it using a target practice.

A dad would be the best teacher in this scenario. The best way to target practice is:

• Place an O-shaped object in the toilet
• Ask them to aim for the water in the toilet bowl
• Instruct your child to know where to aim once the object is removed

6. Bring Reverse Psychology Into Play

Not every child is a fast learner, and sometimes your child may resist using the potty. Forcing your child to use the potty at this point would be a big mistake to make. Avoid power struggles, and never tease or shame your child. Shaming can make children anxious and slow progress.

Here are gentler ways to handle resistance:

• Take a short break from training and try again in a few weeks
• Praise specific efforts, like “You sat on the potty all by yourself!”
• Let your child see family members use the toilet, and offer simple choices, like which potty to use

7. Never Be Strict If They Make Mistakes

As it is a training process, it is obvious that your child will make mistakes. Don’t worry; your child is at an age where he is growing, and the brain is developing. Accidents are a normal part of learning, so stay calm and avoid punishment.

If you keep focusing on the training and give sufficient time, the child will somehow grasp what they are supposed to see. And with time, you will see improvements.

8. Consult A Parent

If you have friends who have been through their child’s potty training stage, they can be great advisors. If you face any setback or issue, you should ask them for guidance rather than trying and facing failure. They may make it easier for you and highlight what you’ve been doing wrong.

If you don’t have a friend who is a parent, social media platforms are always there to help you out. Joining a parent community is a wise choice. Talk to your pediatrician if your child has pain when peeing or pooping, is often constipated, or goes back to having lots of accidents after being trained. 

9. Don’t Flush Instantly

At the start of the training process, your child may be hesitant to use the potty, and during this time, anything can scare them. Some children are afraid of the flush.

The flush sound can scare your child. If your child seems afraid, wait to flush until they have left the bathroom. When they feel ready, letting them push the handle themselves can give them a sense of control.

Final Words

Potty training is one of the most important training a child has to go through. Toddler has to be trained to get used to the toilet as they grow. 

Follow all the techniques and tips to efficiently and effectively potty train your toddler. Then, give it your best and focus on their training. You will surely see some results over time if you take it seriously.

This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Always contact your pediatrician with questions about your baby’s health.