To make it a little easier, here’s a clear list of potty training dos and don’ts to guide you through the process.

✅ Potty Training Dos

1. Do Wait for Readiness Signs
Not every child is ready at the same age. Look for cues like showing interest in the potty, staying dry for longer stretches, or hiding to poop. Starting too early can cause more frustration than progress. Click HERE for a list of my signs of readiness.

2. Do Keep It Positive
Celebrate small wins! Clapping, high-fives, and words of encouragement go a long way. Kids thrive on positive reinforcement, not pressure.

3. Do Make the Potty Accessible
Have a potty chair in the bathroom or even in the playroom at first. This adapts the toilet to their size and helps with independence. Step stools and potty seats for the toilet also help kids feel independent and secure.

4. Do Dress for Success
Skip the complicated outfits. Elastic waistbands and easy-on, easy-off clothing make potty training smoother (and faster when it’s urgent). For the first few days, bare bottoms work best. No need to fumble with clothing.

5. Do Stay Consistent
Routine is key. Offer potty breaks regularly, and be consistent in your approach whether you’re at home, daycare, or grandma’s house. Know that accidents will happen and are part of the process.

❌ Potty Training Don’ts

1. Don’t Pressure or Punish
Accidents are part of the process. Putting too much pressure on a child can create anxiety and resistance. Keep calm, clean up, and move on.

2. Don’t Overprompt
Constantly asking, “Do you need to go?” can backfire. It can make kids feel pressured and less likely to listen to their own body cues.

3. Don’t Expect Overnight Success
Most kids take weeks (or even months) to fully master potty training. And nighttime dryness? That’s usually the last step. Patience is everything.

4. Don’t Compare Your Child to Others
Every child has their own timeline. Just because your neighbor’s toddler trained in three days doesn’t mean yours should. Comparison only adds stress.

5. Don’t Give Up Too Soon
If things feel bumpy, it doesn’t mean your child will “never get it.” Sometimes a short break helps, but don’t throw in the towel at the first sign of resistance.

The Bottom Line

Potty training is a journey, not a race. With consistency, patience, and a positive attitude, your child will get there. Remember: accidents and setbacks are normal, and your approach matters more than the timeline.

If you want a step-by-step plan that takes out the guesswork, my Digital Potty Training Course walks you through exactly what to do, or you can book a 1:1 consultation for personalized support tailored to your child.

You don’t have to figure this out alone — and I’d love to help make this milestone less stressful for your family.

The post The Dos and Don’ts of Potty Training appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

Here’s the truth: the #1 mistake parents make with potty training is giving up too soon (or falling into inconsistent habits).

Why This Backfires

Potty training is a skill, just like learning to walk or ride a bike. It takes time, practice, and a lot of patience. When parents stop and start, prompt too often, or give up after a rough patch, it sends mixed messages to kids.

Instead of building confidence, it can make kids more resistant or confused about what’s expected.

Some signs this might be happening:

• You’re prompting every 15 minutes, which makes your child push back.
• You go back and forth between underwear, pull-ups, and diapers depending on the day.
• After a rough week, you pause potty training “for now” and end up restarting again the next day.

Quick Fixes That Help

If you see yourself in any of those scenarios, don’t worry, you’re not alone. And the good news? Small shifts can make a big difference.

1. Stick With It (But Adjust Your Approach)

If your child is showing readiness signs, don’t abandon potty training after the first setback. Instead, adjust how you’re supporting them. Get expert tips and support from Katie Fenske, a potty training consultant. Learn more HERE.

2. Prompt Less, Encourage More

Instead of constant reminders (“Do you need to go? Do you need to go now?”), try natural prompts:

• Before leaving the house
• After meals
• Before bed
  This builds routine without the overwhelm.

3. Stay Consistent

Children thrive on predictability. If you’ve decided to ditch the diapers, stick with it. Don’t use Pull-ups when you go out and then switch back to requiring potty training at home. Mixed signals only make potty training take longer.

The Bottom Line

Potty training doesn’t have to drag on for months or feel like a daily battle. With consistency, the right amount of prompting, and a little patience, your child will get there.

And if you’re tired of piecing it together on your own?

✨ My digital potty training course gives you a step-by-step roadmap so you don’t have to guess what comes next. From starting strong to navigating setbacks, you’ll know exactly what to do.

👉 Check out the course HERE

You don’t have to do this alone — I’ll walk you through it.

Want to speak with Katie and get support on your potty training journey?

Schedule a 1:1 Potty Training Consultation with Katie today. Click HERE to learn more.

The post The #1 Mistake Parents Make When Potty Training (And What to Do Instead) appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

This is one of the most common potty training struggles I see with families, and it can leave parents feeling frustrated, confused, and honestly… a little gross. The good news? Once you understand why your child is resisting, it’s much easier to help them move past it.

Let’s break down the three most common reasons kids won’t poop in the potty.

1. Fear of Pooping Without a Diaper

For a lot of kids, pooping in a diaper feels safe. The pressure of the diaper, the routine of how it feels — it’s all predictable and comforting. When you suddenly take that away, it can feel scary and out of control.

That fear often leads to withholding — when kids hold their poop for hours or even days. Unfortunately, the longer they hold it, the harder and more uncomfortable pooping becomes… which just adds to the fear cycle.

💡 Tip: If your child is scared, go slowly. Offer them the chance to poop in a pull-up while sitting on the potty as a transition step. Gradually, you can work toward having them go without it.

2. Underwear Confusion

Here’s something most parents don’t realize: underwear can feel an awful lot like a diaper to a young child.

So when your child is in underwear (or even pull-ups), their brain might still think, “Oh, it’s diaper time — I can poop here!” Accidents in underwear aren’t usually defiance — they’re confusion.

💡 Tip: If this sounds like your child, try having some naked time at home or using loose shorts with no underwear. This removes the “diaper-like” feeling and helps them start to connect pooping with the potty instead.

3. Body Awareness Isn’t There Yet

Some kids simply don’t recognize the urge to poop until it’s too late. They’re happily playing one minute, and the next minute — oops, there it is.

It’s not that they don’t want to use the potty. They genuinely don’t notice the signals their body is sending until after the poop has already started.

💡 Tip: Build a routine by having your child sit on the potty about 20–30 minutes after meals. This takes advantage of the body’s natural reflex to poop after eating. Even if nothing happens at first, you’re helping them learn what it feels like when their body is ready.

The Bottom Line

If your child is struggling with poop training, the most important thing to remember is this: they aren’t being naughty. There’s always a reason behind the resistance — fear, confusion, or lack of awareness. Once you figure out their reason, you can guide them through it with patience and consistency.

You don’t have to tackle it alone — and you don’t have to reinvent the wheel.

Need More Help with Potty Training?

✨ My digital potty training course walks you through the exact steps to go from diapers to potty success (without tears and power struggles).

✨ Or, if you’d like personalized support, I offer 1:1 potty training consultations where we make a plan tailored to your child’s unique challenges.

The post 3 Reasons Kids Won’t Poop in the Potty (And What to Do About It) appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to start potty training, a 3-day weekend might just be your golden ticket (or should we say, golden potty?). Those extra 72 hours give you the gift of consistency, focus, and time at home—everything you need to kick off potty training with confidence.

Let’s be honest: potty training can feel overwhelming. But with the right plan—and a long weekend—you can make huge progress and set the stage for long-term success. Here’s why a 3-day weekend works so well, and how to make the most of it.

Why Long Weekends are Ideal for Potty Training

1. You’re home.
No daycare drop-offs, no errands, no rushing out the door. Staying close to home gives your child a consistent environment where they feel safe and relaxed—key ingredients for potty learning.

2. You can focus.
Potty training takes your attention too. A long weekend allows you to be present, patient, and responsive without work or weekday obligations pulling you in every direction.

3. You build momentum.
Three days in a row lets your child learn through repetition. By the end of the weekend, many kids start to understand the rhythm of using the potty and communicating their needs.

The 3 Simple Steps to Start Potty Training

Once you’ve cleared your weekend calendar, it’s time to get started! My proven 3-step method keeps things simple and effective:

Step 1: Bare Buns

Let your child go without pants or underwear at home. This helps them feel when they’re going and makes it easier for you to get them to the potty in time. Plus, it keeps things simple—no clothes to manage.

Step 2: Commando

After a few of going bare, transition to loose pants without underwear. This helps kids maintain their potty awareness while learning to pull clothing up and down—an important part of the process.

Step 3: Underwear

Once your child is staying dry during the day, it’s time for the big moment—underwear! This is a milestone that helps build confidence and independence.

Ready to Start Potty Training with Confidence?

Don’t go it alone! My Potty Training Course walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after your potty training weekend—with expert tips, troubleshooting advice, and real-life examples.

Need more personalized support? I also offer 1:1 consultations, including a 45-minute session or an extended plan with texting access so you’re never stuck guessing what to do next.

👉 Check out the course or book a consultation today—and make the most of your next 3-day weekend! Let’s ditch the diapers together.

The post Why a 3-Day Weekend is the Perfect Time to Start Potty Training appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

Potty training is… A LOT.
It’s messy, unpredictable, and often feels like it requires a degree in toddler psychology—plus a mop, a prayer, and plenty of snacks for survival.

If you’re knee-deep in puddles, poop protests, or power struggles, let me start by saying:
You are not alone.
And you’re not doing it wrong.

Potty Training Isn’t Linear

There are ups. There are downs.
There are amazing days when your toddler proudly flushes and cheers—and then suddenly, a full-blown meltdown over the wrong underwear.

This is normal. Potty training doesn’t follow a straight line. Some days will feel like huge wins. Others? Like you’ve gone backward.

The truth is, your toddler is learning something brand new—something that requires:

• Awareness of their body
• The ability to pause play and listen to signals
• The courage to do something unfamiliar and sometimes scary

That’s a big deal for a tiny human.

You’re Not Failing—They’re Just Learning

When your child resists, regresses, or even withholds (yes, poop withholding is a thing), it’s easy to blame yourself. But don’t.

They’re not broken. And you’re not failing.

What they need most is:

• Patience
• Encouragement
• A calm, consistent plan
• And someone in their corner (that’s you!)

Need Support? I’ve Got You.

Whether you’re just starting out, hitting a rough patch, or totally stuck—I have resources to help:

🎉 My Digital Potty Training Course

It’s self-paced, easy to follow, and designed to walk you through every stage—from prepping to potty to poops to public restrooms.

💬 1:1 Potty Consultations

If you want a custom plan, personalized support, and someone to cheer you on (and troubleshoot when things get tricky), I offer one-on-one consults too.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Potty training is a huge milestone—but it shouldn’t take over your life or your relationship with your child.

Let me help make it smoother, less stressful, and maybe even a little fun.

👉 Check out my potty training course
👉 Book a 1:1 consult with me

You’ve got this. And I’m right here cheering you on—every step of the way.

The post Potty Training Is a Lot—But You’re Not Doing It Wrong appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

They suddenly refuse to poop.

You know they need to. You can see the wiggles, the clenched cheeks, the hide-and-seek bathroom avoidance. But no matter how many sticker charts or silly dances you try, they hold it in like it’s a game.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not doing anything wrong. Poop withholding is a super common potty training challenge. And believe it or not, it often pops up after kids have seemed totally trained.

Let’s break down why it happens, how it affects your child, and what you can do to help.

Common Reasons Toddlers Withhold Poop

1. Scary (but Common) Bathroom Experiences

Sometimes all it takes is one bad moment—like a loud automatic toilet flush in a public restroom—to make your toddler think the potty is out to get them.

Been there? Same. One unexpected poop in the bathtub left my newly potty-trained son terrified of pooping for months.

Another common culprit: painful poops. If your child has had a hard or uncomfortable bowel movement, they may start associating the potty with pain. And when pooping = pain, they’ll hold it in to avoid going. Unfortunately, that only leads to more discomfort.

2. Environmental Distractions

Toddlers are BUSY. There are blocks to stack, snacks to eat, shows to finish. When they feel the urge to go, many kids ignore it because they’re mid-play or mid-episode.

This isn’t fear—it’s FOMO. But the result is the same: your kiddo holds it in too long and ends up uncomfortable, constipated, or scared to try again.

The Long-Term Impact of Withholding

When a child repeatedly holds in poop, their bowel movements become more difficult and painful. This can lead to a cycle of:

• Clenching and resisting
• Constipation
• Stomachaches and bloating
• Increased anxiety about pooping

It’s a tough cycle—for them and for you.

What Can You Do to Help?

💛 1. Make Potty Time a Positive Experience

If your child has had a scary or painful poop, reassure them that their body is learning. Sit with them, encourage them gently, and use body-positive, shame-free language.

Celebrate the small wins—even just sitting on the toilet is a step in the right direction!

🌱 2. Add a Daily Prebiotic Supplement

If withholding is causing constipation or discomfort, a kid-friendly prebiotic like Begin Health’s Daily Growing Up Prebiotics may help.

Each serving includes 3g of fiber to support digestion and help soften stools, making bathroom time easier and less intimidating.

Kids are more likely to go when they’re comfortable—and that’s half the battle!

You’re Not Alone—and I’m Here to Help

Withholding can feel like a mystery, especially when potty training was going so well. But you’re not doing anything wrong. And you don’t have to navigate this stage alone.

👏 Want more help?

Check out my digital potty training course—designed to walk you through every stage of potty training, including tricky issues like withholding.

Need personalized support? I also offer 1:1 potty training consultations where we build a custom plan tailored to your child’s needs.

✅ Ready to take the stress out of potty training?

👉 Click here to explore my course
👉 Book a 1:1 consultation with me

You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back—one poop at a time. 💩✨

The post Why Is My Toddler Withholding Poop? appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

Let’s break it down: what the 3-day method is, who it’s best for, and what to really expect if you decide to give it a go.

What Is the 3-Day Potty Training Method?

The idea is simple: dedicate three solid days to intensive potty training. You stay home. You follow your toddler around like a shadow. And you take them to the potty over and over again—with no diapers, no pants, and a ton of patience.

Here’s the basic formula:

• You ditch the diapers cold turkey (except for naps and night, if needed).
• You give your toddler a lot of fluids.
• You encourage frequent potty visits—especially right after drinking, waking up, or showing cues.
• Accidents are expected, and you handle them calmly, without punishment.

It’s often called “bootcamp-style,” because it’s all-in, all at once.

Who This Method Works Best For

Here’s the thing: the 3-day method isn’t magic. It works best when your child is already showing signs of readiness like:

• Staying dry for 2+ hours at a time
• Hiding to poop or telling you after they’ve gone
• Showing interest in the toilet or potty
• Understanding and following simple directions

It’s also ideal for parents who can block off a full weekend (or more!) with minimal distractions. That means no errands, no visitors, and a whole lotta potty talk.

If your toddler is resistant to change, easily overwhelmed, or you have a packed schedule—this method might not be your best bet. And that’s okay!

What to Expect (Spoiler: It’s Not Always “Done” in 3 Days)

Let’s be honest. The name “3-day potty training” can be a little misleading. Yes, some kids take to it quickly—but many toddlers need a few extra days, weeks, or even months to fully master all parts of potty training (especially pooping on the potty and staying dry overnight).

Here’s what a more realistic timeline might look like:

• Day 1: Lots of accidents. You question everything.
• Day 2: A few wins! Maybe even a pee in the potty. Confidence grows.
• Day 3: More consistency, but still not accident-free.
• Week 2: You’re seeing real progress, but still need reminders and support.

And that’s perfectly normal.

Final Thoughts

The 3-day method can be effective—but only if your child is truly ready and you go into it with patience, flexibility, low expectations, and limited pressures. It’s not a failure if it takes longer than three days. In fact, that’s usually the norm!

Remember: potty training is a journey, not a race. And no matter what method you choose, consistency, encouragement, and a calm response to accidents are the real secret sauce.

Thinking about giving it a try? I’ve got a free printable resources and a readiness checklist to help you plan your 3-day potty training weekend. Get it HERE

Need More Support?

My digital course walks parents through every step of the potty training process. Here is a list of the modules and what is taught in each one.

Module 1: Preparing for Potty Training

• Signs of Readiness
• Myths
• Preparing Your Child
• Game Plan (Schedule and Mindset)
• Must Have List + Rewards

Module 2: It’s Potty Time

• 3-Step Method
• How to Begin (goals, expectations, method, nap/night)
• Going #2
• Transitioning through the Steps
• When to Throw in the Towel
• Day in the Life Videos

Module 3: Potty Training Away from Home

• Leaving the House + Travel + Accidents
• Transitioning to Day Care/Preschool

Module 4: Night Potty Training

• When and How to Potty Train at Night

Module 5: Frequently Asked Questions 

Spraying while peeing, Holding Pee, Refusing to Sit, How to Teach Wiping, Regressions, Twins,Pooping (Withholding, Constipation, Pooping in Pants, Pooping in Night Diaper), Timers and Potty Watches,Self Initiating, Speech Delay

Digital Potty Training Course

Learn everything you need to know about potty training from the comfort of your own home without having to read a 300-page book.

Get it Here

The post Potty Training in 3 Days: Does It Really Work? appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

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! 💪

The post 5 Potty Training Myths That Are Holding You Back appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

If your toddler is starting potty training and also spends time at daycare/preschool, it’s totally normal to feel a little nervous about how it’ll all work together. The good news? With a solid plan and good communication, potty training across two environments can absolutely be successful.

Here’s how to make it work—without losing your mind.

💬 Step 1: Communicate Clearly with Your Child’s Teacher

Before you begin, talk to your child’s daycare provider about your potty training goals. Let them know:

• Your child’s current progress
• What language you use at home (“potty” vs. “toilet” etc.)
• Your expectations (Do you want to go cold turkey with diapers? Are you okay with diapers during nap?)

Ask them what they do when kids are potty training. Most daycares have a routine in place—and knowing it helps you stay in sync! Some also have specific licensing that dictates what they can and can not do.

📄 Pro tip: Create a simple potty training info sheet for your daycare provider. Include:

• How often to offer the potty
• What your child’s cues look like
• Rewards or motivators you’re using

🧻 Step 2: Pack the Right Supplies

Make sure your child has everything they need in their cubby to feel confident and comfortable:

✔️ Multiple pairs of undies
✔️ 2–3 extra outfits (including socks!)
✔️ Plastic bags for wet clothes
✔️ Any motivators you use at home (like stickers or a favorite book) and even a little treat for the teachers!

✨ Optional: A small potty seat insert if they’re not a fan of full-size toilets yet (ask the daycare if they allow it). Here’s a link to my favorite by One Proud Toddler

🔄 Step 3: Stay Consistent with Language + Routine

Children thrive on routine—and the more aligned your home and daycare potty approach is, the smoother it’ll go. If daycare takes them potty every 45–60 minutes, do the same at home. If you use a “potty song” at home, share it with their teacher. 🎶

Even small consistencies build confidence!

Many kids will have more success at home first so make the time you spend at home very consistent and committed. This will translate to daycare.

📈 Step 4: Be Patient with Progress (and Setbacks)

It’s totally normal for toddlers to be more successful in one place than the other at first. Some kids will hold it all day at daycare, while others may have more accidents there than at home.

Either way, it’s all part of the learning process. Keep communicating with your provider, keep the tone positive, and stay the course.

📝 BONUS: Use a Potty Communication Log

This doesn’t have to be fancy—a simple daily note or checklist works! Track:

• When they used the potty
• Accidents (if any)
• Bowel movements
• Any changes in behavior

It gives both you and your provider a clear picture of how things are going, and where you might want to tweak your approach.

💛 Final Thought: You’re a Team

You and your daycare provider are on the same team—both cheering for your child’s success. When everyone is aligned, your toddler gets clear, calm, and confident messages from the grown-ups around them. And that is a game-changer.

Need more support?

My digital potty training course is perfect for busy parents juggling work, daycare, and the big transition to underwear. 🎉

It includes: ✔️ Step-by-step training plan
✔️ How to Prepare for Potty Training
✔️ My 3-Step Method including Day Care and Potty Training on the Go
✔️ Bonus tips for poop, naps, and nighttime

🎥 And yes—videos, because who has time to read a manual?

👉 Check out the course here and feel confident every step of the way!

You’ve got this, potty pro. 🙌

Schedule a 1:1 Consultation with a Potty Training Consultant

I offer virtual consultations for parents that want more personalized support. Check out my packages HERE.

The post Potty Training at Daycare: How to Stay Consistent Between Home and School appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.

❌ “No! I don’t want to!”
❌ Crying or screaming when you suggest the potty.
❌ Holding in pee or poop to avoid using the toilet.

If this sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Potty training resistance is very common and usually happens for a reason. In this post, we’ll explore why kids refuse the potty and what you can do to help.

Why Is Your Child Resisting the Potty? 🤔

Understanding why your child is saying no to the potty is the first step to fixing the issue. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Fear of the Toilet or Going Potty 🚽😨

Some kids are genuinely scared of the potty the act of going pee/poop without a diaper/pants. The flushing sound, the idea of something “disappearing,” or even the feeling of sitting on a big seat can be overwhelming.

Signs of this:
✔️ Your child clings to you when near the toilet.
✔️ They get scared when they hear the flush.
✔️ They refuse to sit on the potty at all.

💡 What to Do: Help them get comfortable! Let them sit on the potty with their clothes on, read potty books together, and model using the toilet yourself, limit the amount of prompting. The goal is to make the potty feel safe and normal.

2. Feeling Pressured 😰

If your child senses that you are really eager for them to use the potty, they might push back. Potty training works best when children feel like they are in control—not being forced.

Signs of this:
✔️ Your child starts saying “NO” even before you suggest the potty.
✔️ They hold in pee or poop until they get a diaper.
✔️ They hide when they need to go.

💡 What to Do: Shift from “You HAVE to go potty” to “Let’s try sitting on the potty and see what happens.” Keep it casual and low-pressure. Praise effort, not results! I love the phrase, “Thanks for trying,” if a child sits and doesn’t go.

3. Not Fully Ready Yet ⏳

Many parents feel pressure to start potty training by a certain age (like 2 years old), but readiness is different for every child. If your child isn’t developmentally ready, they will resist.

Signs of readiness:
✔️ Communicates with a word or phrase.
✔️ Showing interest in the toilet or wearing underwear.
✔️ Following simple instructions.

• Visit my blog post Signs of Readiness for more!

💡 What to Do: If your child isn’t showing these signs yet, pause potty training for a few weeks. Starting too early can cause more frustration and setbacks.

4. Power Struggles 💢

Some kids refuse the potty just to assert control. They want to feel independent, and if they think potty training is YOUR idea, they may push back just to show they have a choice.

Signs of this:
✔️ Your child says “NO!” even when they clearly need to go.
✔️ They resist anything related to the potty, like flushing or washing hands.

💡 What to Do: Give them more control by offering choices:

🔹 “Do you want to use the blue potty or the white toilet?”
🔹 “Do you want to flush yourself or should I do it?”
🔹 “Do you want to sit on the potty before or after your bath?”

Making it their decision reduces resistance!

How to Get Your Child to Use the Potty (Without a Battle!) 🎯

Now that we know why kids resist the potty, let’s talk about one simple strategy to help turn things around:

✨ The “No Pressure” Method ✨

🚽 Create a potty routine – “We always go before (we leave the house, dinner time etc).
📚 Read potty training books together.
👕 Limit the amount of prompts you give.
🎉 Celebrate small wins—even just sitting on the potty is progress! Say “Thanks for Trying”

The goal is to make potty training a fun, relaxed experience so your child feels comfortable trying it.

Still Struggling? Let’s Create a Custom Plan! 👩‍⚕️

Every child is unique, and sometimes a one-size-fits-all method doesn’t work. If your child continues to resist the potty, it may be time for personalized support.

🎯 In my 1:1 Potty Training Consultation, I’ll help you:
✅ Identify what’s causing resistance.
✅ Create a custom potty training plan.
✅ Teach you proven techniques to help your child succeed!

📩 click HERE to book your consultation! 🚽✨

Want More Help? My Digital Potty Training Course is Here! 🎉

Potty training doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re feeling stuck and want a clear, step-by-step plan to help your child succeed, my Potty Training Digital Course is exactly what you need!

🎓 Inside the course, you’ll learn:
✅ How to identify potty training readiness.
✅ A proven step-by-step method for potty success.
✅ Exactly what to do when your child resists or has accidents.
✅ How to ditch diapers for good—without stress!

💡 Bonus: You’ll also get exclusive troubleshooting guides for common potty training struggles, plus access to me for extra support!

📲 Click HERE to enroll now and start your potty training journey with confidence!

The post What to Do When Your Child Refuses the Potty appeared first on Burnt Pancakes.