Why punishment doesn't help

• During this stage, your child will occasionally go without a diaper for an hour or so. This means your child might sometimes pee or poop in their pants—or on the floor. In other words, an accident.
• It’s all part of the process and perfectly normal. More importantly, it helps your child learn to sense what’s happening. Holding in their pee is a new skill to learn, and that takes time.

Dealing with Accidents

• Does your little one have frequent accidents at this stage? That can be frustrating for you. We understand. After all, you might be in a hurry to leave. Or you’ve already mopped the floor twice. But it’s important for your little one that you don’t get angry.

• Your child isn't doing it on purpose. Often, your child doesn't realize what happened until afterward. Is your child laughing? That might be because it feels funny—the wetness running down their legs. Or because it was a real surprise: look what's happening!
• Getting angry or punishing your child won’t help with potty training. It can make your child feel anxious or insecure—both about themselves and about you. After all, children really want to do well.

Here's what you can do

• Pay close attention to your child’s cues. Maybe it’s time to start potty training?
• Had an accident? Stay calm and explain what happened. For example:
  
  • “You peed in your pants. They’re completely wet now.”
  • "Oh no, there's a puddle on the floor. Just stay right there. We'll clean that up. That feels weird, doesn't it?"
  • We just missed the mark. Better luck next time.
• Help your child with changing and don’t dwell on it too much. By staying calm, you’ll keep the experience safe and relaxed.
• Is your child potty training? Make sure you have cleaning supplies and a change of clothes on hand.
• Worried that your child might pee on a rug or sofa? Then move it out of the way or choose a different room for them to play in.
• Are you feeling stressed or angry? Take a deep breath. It’s all part of the process. It’s okay.
• Having a busy day? Be kind to yourself. You can also choose to skip a day in this step.