Hey there! I’m Katie, a certified potty trainer and a mom of three energetic boys. I know firsthand the joys and challenges of potty training, and I’m here to share some valuable insights with you. Today, we’re going to dive into a common dilemma parents face during this journey: should you use a little potty or a toilet lid insert? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice for your child.
Little Potty: Why It Gets My Thumbs Up
1.Better Size for Little Ones – One of the most significant advantages of using a little potty is its size. It’s designed to be child-friendly, making it easier for your little one to get on and off. The lower height of the little potty encourages independence, as your child can use it without needing your assistance. This is especially helpful when they suddenly feel the urge to go, just seconds before it happens!
2. Less Fear-Inducing – Some children develop a fear of the big toilet. The vast hole, the loud flushing noise, or the height from the ground can be intimidating for them. The little potty offers a more comfortable and reassuring alternative. I can personally attest to this – my own son had no trouble peeing in the toilet, but when it came to pooping, he needed the security of the little potty.
3. Better Positioning for Pooping – The little potty naturally promotes the ideal anatomical position for pooping: feet planted on a solid surface, knees higher than hips, and leaning forward slightly. This position can make the process more comfortable and efficient for your child
4. Portability – Another great feature of the little potty is its portability. You can easily move it around your house to accommodate your child’s needs. Whether you want it in the kitchen, playroom, or even in the car for potty training on the go, the little potty is incredibly versatile.
Toilet Lid Insert: When It Makes Sense
1.Less Cleaning – Let’s be honest, cleaning out a little potty filled with pee and poop isn’t the most pleasant task. Using a toilet lid insert eliminates this issue, as your child will use the regular toilet. It’s definitely a cleaner option!
2. Easier Transition to Public Restrooms – Using a toilet lid insert can help your child get accustomed to using a real toilet, making those trips to preschool, the park, or public restrooms much smoother. The more practice they get, the more confident they’ll become in using public facilities.
Which One Do I Recommend?
In my experience, it’s often best to have both options available during the potty training journey. Every child is unique, and their preferences can change over time. My own boys initially preferred the little potty, but after about 4-6 months, they transitioned to the toilet. Once that became the norm, I phased out the little potty. However, I always made both options available, just in case.
There’s no need to rush your child into using a toilet at home if they’re comfortable with a little potty. The key is to ensure they’re making progress and feeling confident in their potty training journey. Additionally, if you notice that your child is struggling with bowel movements or if they’re under 2.5 years old, I highly recommend using a little potty alongside the toilet lid insert.
Remember, every child is different, and the key is to make potty training a positive and stress-free experience for both you and your little one. By providing both options, you can adapt to your child’s needs and preferences, ultimately making the transition to a diaper-free world a smooth one. Happy potty training!
Which Ones to Buy?
I absolutely love the Baby Bijorn little potty. I used it with all three of my boys. It is simple and doesn’t have any bells and whistles (which I just find to be distracting). It’s also very easy to clean and store in your bathroom. Click HERE
My favorite lid insert is actually designed for potty training on the go, but because of its simple design and slender yet sturdy size, I used this at home as well. One Proud Toddler makes that foldable travel toilet seat lid making it more comfortable for a child to sit on a toilet. Get it HERE
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