Potty training is a time of excitement and change in your child's life. It can be very scary, too, but reading potty-training books for children can lighten the mood and help your child understand the process from his point of view.
Everyone Poops
"Everyone Poops" was published in 2001 and written by Taro Gomi. This hilarious potty-training book brings an attitude of laughter and playfulness to parents and children as they tackle the job of potty training. This book is sure to help you release any tension you have as it talks about how, as the title says, everyone poops. The story includes animals, babies, toddlers and parents, showing how and where they poop and where it comes from. The book totally normalizes this body function, which can be a bit scary for toddlers when they are first learning that poop needs to go in the potty.
The Potty Book
Written by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, "The Potty Book" is available in two versions, one for girls and one for boys. This book helps build confidence and self-esteem and eases potty fears as Hanna--or Henry, in the boys' version--notes she needs a diaper change before going out to play. Instead, Mommy brings home a big box with a potty inside. Hanna/Henry learns to accept mistakes and try again, and the story emphasizes being "proud of me." This book's rhymes make it engaging for children and parents.
Once Upon a Potty
First written in 1975, "Once Upon a Potty," by Alona Frankel, can truly be deemed a classic for children as they embark on potty training. In this story, Prudence has a body with so many parts that are amazing and useful. The author employs straight talk about body parts and helps children understand what part pees and what part poops. You can easily substitute your own terminology if you are not fond of hers--don't let that deter you. This book comes in versions for boys and girls, and parents who want to go all the way can purchase a matching dolly or potty chair.
Potty!
Mylo Freeman's "Potty!" tells children an engaging story of animals in the jungle in search of the best bottom to fit a potty. Some are too big, some are too small--but the perfect fit belongs to a little boy. The point of this book is to entertain you and your child, and it provides a simple break from teaching your child the mechanics of successful bathroom use and anatomy.
I Want My Potty
Written by Tony Ross, "I Want My Potty" helps children learn to be done with diapers. In this story, the queen teaches her little princess about the benefits of the potty. The little princess is less than excited at first, but she becomes quite proud of herself as she masters the throne. Boys and girls alike will find this book humorous and helpful, as it eases stress associated with accidents.
