How do I encourage my child?

• Learning something new is often exciting. This is also true when it comes to learning to use the potty or toilet. By encouraging your child, you help them build confidence and try again.
• Try paying extra attention for a day to how often you compliment your child. Make a conscious effort to do it a little more often. Did you know that you can’t give children under the age of 5 too many compliments? It’s good for their self-confidence and helps them learn new things.
• ‍Give your child a compliment when they try something. For example, when they sit on the potty, pull down their pants, or say they need to go. So don’t save compliments for the end result—when they’ve succeeded.
• Point out right away what’s going well. For example:
  “How great that you’re sitting on the potty.”
  “Good job trying.”

• ‍Did they manage to pee or poop in the potty? If so, give them lots of praise. Say it a few times: "You did such a great job! Peeing in the potty—wow!"

• Is it not working out right now, or is your child reluctant to try? Don’t get upset—just keep encouraging them. Tell them you understand: “It’s pretty tough, isn’t it? But you’re doing a great job already!”

Here's what you can do

• Give your child a compliment every time they try something new. For example, sitting on the potty. Or flushing the toilet. Or pulling down their pants by themselves. Even if they only manage to do it a little bit. Say: “Good try!” Or: “Almost on time!” “Way to go!”
• Be specific about what exactly is so good or impressive.
• Give them a high five or a hug after the compliment. That way, your child will feel it too.
• Be sure to give compliments for even small steps.
• Give the compliment right away, in the moment. That way, your child will better understand what they’re doing right.
• Sometimes it doesn’t work out yet. Keep giving your child compliments and encouragement. For example, you could say: “Nothing came out? That’s okay. We’ll try again later.” “You almost went, good job. Maybe next time.”

By offering plenty of encouragement, you keep things positive, your child learns faster, and it’s more enjoyable for you, too.

Andyou really do it together, as a team!