Although toilet training may seem like an endless struggle for many parents and toddlers, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Phil McGraw developed a simple and effective one-day training method. Becoming fully potty trained is a process that requires consistent practice, but his one-day method sets a sturdy foundation by instilling toilet-use habits and establishing muscle memory that will last a lifetime.
Considerations
Before you begin your one-day toilet training session, consider whether you and your child are ready to begin. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests looking for signs that she is ready. She may be ready if three or more hours transpire between wet diapers; her bowel movements are relatively predictable and well-formed; she is physically able to transport herself to a toilet and remove her pants; she halts normal activities while she is using her diaper; and she has expressed some interest in using a potty. Also, Dr. Phil recommends setting aside some time in advance to demonstrate to your child how you or a wetting doll uses the potty. Finally, consider your schedule and be ready to dedicate a full day to toilet training.
Teaching to Learn
Invest in a doll that "wets," and give it to your toddler. He will have the privilege of naming the doll and giving it a drink. Now, since your child has already observed toilet use, he should be able to aid you in teaching a doll to use the toilet. Invite your toddler to walk with you and the doll to a toilet, show him how to pull down the doll's underwear, and observe the doll as it uses the toilet. When that doll is successful in using the toilet, throw a "potty party," complete with horns, hats and plenty of cheering. At this point, you will tell your toddler that if he, too, uses a toilet, he will also get a "potty party," and he will get to call his favorite superhero (a relative who's on board) to report the news.
Encouraging Potty Use
Ditching your child's diapers and placing her in underwear will allow her to see the outcome of not reaching the toilet. Giving her plenty of fluids, just as she gave fluids to the doll, will encourage her to urinate more frequently. If she doesn't seem interested in drinking, you may want to resort to brief dietary changes. Wendy Sweeney, a "potty whisperer" who operates a one-day toilet training "Booty Camp" in Chicago, recommends giving your child salty snacks and sugary drinks to encourage more fluid intake and more urination, according to an article on MSNBC.com.
Reinforcement
Ask your child if he needs to use the toilet, and take him when he signals to give him some autonomy. He may continue to have accidents, but brush them off with "Whoops! There it goes!" Then, take him to the toilet, remove his underwear and have him sit down. Repeat 10 times to build muscle memory, and he will eventually use the toilet. When he does, celebrate lavishly with horns, hats, cheering and a call to a superhero.
After Day One
Your child should get the idea of using the toilet by the end of the first day, but she will need to practice her new skill. Any time she has an accident, take her to the toilet 10 times in succession and continue to positively reinforce toilet use.
