Potty training comes with a lot of opinions—and not all of them are helpful. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or like you’re “behind,” you’re definitely not alone.
There’s a ton of noise out there, and unfortunately, some of it is rooted in outdated advice or unrealistic expectations. Today, we’re busting 5 common potty training myths that might be holding you (and your little one) back.
Let’s clear the air so you can tune out the pressure and focus on what really matters—your child’s individual journey. 💛
🚫 Myth #1: “They should be potty trained by age 2”
This is one of the biggest myths I hear—and it creates so much unnecessary pressure.
The truth? Most children potty train between 2 and 3.5 years old. And yes, some are ready earlier or later than that, but there’s no magical age that guarantees success.
What actually matters: Readiness signs. Is your child showing interest in the potty? Staying dry for longer stretches? Able to follow simple instructions? Those are the real green lights—not the date on the calendar.
🚫 Myth #2: “If they don’t potty train early, you’ve missed the window”
Nope! You have not missed anything. Every child develops at their own pace, and pushing them before they’re ready can backfire (hello, power struggles and resistance).
Some kids potty train quickly at 2. Others take their time and aren’t fully there until 3 or 4. It’s all normal.
What actually matters: Confidence and cooperation. When your child is ready and feels supported, potty training goes so much smoother.
🚫 Myth #3: “Boys are harder to potty train than girls”
Let’s bust this one once and for all. 🙅♀️ While boys on average may take a little longer, that doesn’t mean they’re harder.
What’s more important than gender? Personality, temperament, and readiness. I’ve worked with super easygoing boys who trained in a weekend and stubborn girls who took months. Every child is different!
What actually matters: Meeting your child where they are—regardless of gender.
🚫 Myth #4: “If they have accidents, they’re not ready”
Accidents are normal—especially in the beginning, during transitions, or in new environments (like daycare or Grandma’s house). They don’t mean you’ve failed or your child isn’t ready.
What actually matters: Consistency, support, and patience. Stay the course, don’t shame or scold, and treat accidents as learning opportunities.
🚫 Myth #5: “You should be done in 3 days”
We’ve all heard of the “3-day method,” and while it can work for some, it’s not a magic wand. Potty training is a process—not a one-weekend project.
It’s totally normal for daytime training to take a few weeks, and nighttime dryness can take months (or even years!) to follow.
What actually matters: Progress over perfection. Look for gradual improvements and celebrate the small wins. That’s the real success.
🚫 Myth #6: “Pull-Ups help with potty training”
I know they seem like the perfect in-between option, but Pull-Ups can actually slow the process down for many kids. Why? Because they feel too much like diapers!
They don’t always give that “wet” feedback kids need to make the connection.
What actually matters: Switching to undies (or going bare-bottomed) when you start training. It sends a clear signal that it’s time to use the potty now—not the diaper.
Final Thoughts: Tune Out the Noise
If you’re feeling discouraged or like you’re doing it “wrong,” take a deep breath and remind yourself:
✨ Your child is on their own timeline.
✨ You are doing an amazing job.
✨ You can trust your gut.
And if you need a step-by-step roadmap that works with your child’s pace (not against it), I’ve got you covered.
✅ Ready to ditch the myths and potty train with confidence?
Check out my digital potty training course—designed to walk you through the process in a stress-free, flexible way that fits your child and your life.
Need personalized support? You can also book a 1:1 consultation for a custom plan and hands-on help.
💻 Digital Potty Training Course LINK
📆 Schedule a 1:1 Consultation HERE
You’ve got this—and I’m here to help every step of the way! 💪
