As a parent navigating the world of potty training, I recently found myself in a rather desperate situation: I purchased a children’s book titled Percy the Poop. The premise? A talking piece of feces that helps kids understand the importance of using the potty. This month marks a full year since I embarked on this journey with my daughter, and it feels like we’ve been in a never-ending cycle of challenges.
Our journey into potty training began unexpectedly. One weekend, my then two-year-old declared she wanted to use the potty. It seemed remarkably straightforward—so much so that my partner and I were initially optimistic. After all, she had only a handful of accidents during her early attempts.
However, the reality of potty training has revealed itself to be a much more complex issue, primarily centered around one topic: poop. Despite knowing that every child’s experience is unique, our struggle has been largely tied to this one bodily function. Who would have thought such a universal act could lead to such frustration?
Before you suggest possible solutions, let me clarify: I’ve explored numerous strategies to encourage my daughter to poop on the potty. Here are a few approaches I’ve taken:
- Offering small and large rewards.
- Utilizing a toddler potty chair and even a Disney-themed potty seat insert for the regular toilet.
- Implementing a potty money jar, with the goal of saving for a new toy (currently, we have one penny).
- Creating a sticker chart with extravagant princess stickers.
- Allowing her to watch videos or even a full movie.
- Reading poop-themed books (yes, including Percy).
- Demonstrating the process by moving poop from underwear to the potty.
- Making her help clean her underwear.
- Letting her pick out fun new underwear at the store.
- Allowing her to go without pants at home for extended periods.
Despite my daily encouragement and efforts—sometimes even breaking into song and dance about poop—nothing seems to resonate with her. My daughter is both stubborn and intelligent; she understands the expectation but simply refuses to comply. Unlike many other children, fear doesn’t appear to be a factor for her.
In fact, her unpredictable schedule makes it challenging to intervene effectively. This has led me to become hyper-aware of her behaviors, closely monitoring her for any signs that she might need to go. While I’m focused on her, I often find myself feeling anxious and overwhelmed.
People often tell me to relax, assuring me that she will eventually figure it out. However, those who have faced similar challenges know that this reassurance can feel patronizing. Yes, I understand that she will eventually learn, but that doesn’t lessen the daily frustrations of the process.
As I wash out dirty underwear for the umpteenth time, I remind myself that one day, this will all be behind us. Until then, I’m left with the reality that I may soon be starting this process all over again with another child.
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Summary
Potty training can be a challenging journey for both parents and children, particularly when it comes to mastering bowel movements. This article shares a parent’s experience, detailing various strategies that have been attempted without success, highlighting the emotional toll and frustration that can accompany the process. Ultimately, patience and understanding are vital, as every child learns at their own pace.
Keyphrase: potty training struggles
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