Potty training is a big event in the lives of parents and their children, and it can sometimes pose a challenge. Not all children show enthusiasm when it comes to using the potty. In fact, training a stubborn child to use the potty can end in disaster, especially if the training results in crying and frustration. According to Lesia Oesterreich, a family life specialist at Iowa State University, the potty training experience fares much better when the child is physically and emotionally ready.
Step 1
Determine the cause of the stubbornness. Sometimes, starting potty training too early can result in stubbornness. According to WonderBaby.org, potty training should not begin before the child's second birthday, unless they show signs of interest.
Step 2
Involve your stubborn child in the potty preparations. Allow him to pick out his own potty seat when shopping and involve him in the setup. The Wellness Center at North Dakota State University explains that a positive potty training experience requires a relaxed and happy atmosphere.
Step 3
Buy some "big kid" underwear. WonderBaby.org recommends that taking your child to the store and purchasing underwear with designs or characters that he likes may get him excited enough to start the potty training process. A pee-pee doll can also give your stubborn child a visual on how the potty training process works. You may want to read some potty training picture books to your stubborn child to encourage him.
Step 4
Dress your stubborn child in clothing that easily comes on and off. The Wellness Center at North Dakota State University also recommends dressing your child in loosely fitted clothing that he can pull off and on by himself. This way, he can use the potty without asking for your help, especially if he needs to go potty in a hurry.
Step 5
Give the stubborn child plenty of hugs and praise after he uses the potty. You should even praise your child if he sits on the potty, but does not go. The positive reinforcement may encourage him.
Tips and Warnings
- Look for signs that your child wants to begin potty training. Informing you about dirty diapers, regular bowel movements, dry diapers and interest in the toilet may indicate a readiness to begin the potty training process.
- If your child appears afraid of the toilet or wets and soils his diaper right after he sits on the toilet, hold off on potty training. Do not change your child's diaper immediately. Allow him time to associate a dirty diaper with feelings of discomfort. Not changing him right away will also give him an opportunity to ask you to change it.
Things You'll Need
- Potty seat
- Big kid underwear
- Pee-pee doll
- Potty training picture books
- Loosely fitted clothing
