Perseverance and staying the course: how do you do it?

• Are you ready to move on to the next step and help your child become completely diaper-free? Just know that the first few weeks can be pretty hectic and demanding. You’ll need to stay on top of things to make sure your child goes to the bathroom on time. It won’t always go smoothly, so you’ll likely have to deal with wet pants from time to time. It’s especially hectic during the first few days. Keep this in mind.
• When your child starts potty training, it can take some time to get the hang of it. Some days go well. Other days, there are several accidents in a row. This can be quite challenging for you. You’ve already practiced a lot and are hoping it will come naturally now. Still, this phase is a normal part of the process.
• Try to stay calm and stick to what you’ve been doing: establishing a routine, paying close attention to cues, and helping your child get to the bathroom in time.
• Many children need a few weeks to practice going without a diaper all day. They’ll get better and better at sensing when they need to go and will tell you when they need to pee or poop. But your child still needs your help.

When should you take a step back?

• If things still haven’t really improved after 2 or 3 weeks, and there are more than 3 accidents a day, you may have moved on to this step too quickly. Take a step back and try practicing half-days without a diaper again. Choose times when things usually go well to practice without a diaper. See step 3 for how to do this.
• Take a step back? Tell your child that you’re practicing really well, but sometimes you’ll just put the diaper back on. Because it’s still pretty hard. That’s okay—you’ll keep practicing. Give your child praise when they try and when they succeed.
• Remember: taking a step back actually helps your child progress. It doesn’t mean you have to start all over again. So keep practicing without a diaper at set times. Don’t put the diaper back on all day long. That’s confusing for your child.