If your child really doesn't want to

• In this step, you’ll be practicing more often. Some kids enjoy that. But others don’t want to join in. They just say “No” and walk away. That can be pretty tough sometimes!
• Saying "no" is a natural part of growing up. Toddlers practice making their own decisions and see what happens when they say "no."
• It’s also possible that your child wants to practice, but is busy playing right now.
• Do you think your child needs to go? Then explain why your child really needs to use the potty or the toilet right now. Wet pants aren't fun, remember?
• Keep it lighthearted and playful. For example, with some music, hugs (which are also necessary), a little dance, or a joke.
• Don’t turn it into a battle. So don’t say it’s absolutely necessary or that you’ll get angry. That often makes potty training take longer and makes it harder for you, too.

What can you do? 

• Choose specific times to practice, such as when you wake up, before meals, or before going outside. Stick to the same times every day.
• Identify those set times. For example, say: “We always go to the bathroom for a quick pee before we eat. That’s just part of the routine. So we’ll do it now, too.” Your child will learn that this is normal.
• It might help if everyone in the family goes to the bathroom at those times too. That way, your child will see that he or she isn’t the only one— and that it’s a normal part of life .
• Describe what you see. For example, say: “I can see you’re squirming. You need to go. Come on, let’s go to the bathroom together. Otherwise, you’ll end up with wet pants.”
• Is your child busy playing? Then say: "You can keep playing. We're just going to the bathroom. After that, you can go back to playing with the Duplo (...or cars, cooking, drawing)." That often helps. Your child will then know that playtime isn't over yet. Thank goodness!
• Does your little one not want to stop playing? Let them take one or two toys with them to the bathroom. That way, going to the bathroom will be fun, too.
• Is your child getting upset? Don’t dwell on it too much. Distract your child with a joke or a song. Turn it into something fun. Or say that Bear needs to go to the bathroom too and is too scared to go alone. Or just leave it for a moment.
• Tell your child what you’ll do after they use the potty. For example, say: “Once you’ve used the potty, we’ll do a puzzle together. Isn’t that fun? That might encourage your child to practice, because something fun is coming next!”