Take Potty Training on the Road

A bare bottom at home is one thing, but taking a toddler OUT without a diaper might leave you feeling a bit vulnerable and, um, exposed. What if she, like, has an accident or something!?? Let me assure you: accidents do happen. But that's OK. It's all part of the learning process.

Up until now, you've probably been using a pull-up whenever you left the house. Today, your job is to bravely venture out of the house with your underwear-clad tot in tow and show her how to go potty away from home-sweet-home.

Here's how to get your little potty trainee to go while out and about:

• Start with the familiar. Your kid's first out-of-bathroom potty experience shouldn't be at Grand Central Station. Instead, call ahead to a close friend or relative and let them know you're coming for a visit. And, while you're there, you'll be using the potty.
  
  
• Be prepared. Pack your on-the-go potty or adapter seat as well as a change of clothes (or two!).
  
  
• Communicate. Explain to your child that you're going to so-and-so's house and he'll be wearing his underwear. Show him the potty seat you'll be bringing and explain that while you're over there, he'll be using the potty.
  
  
• Bring rewards. Pack along a special reward (and be sure to make that part of your big speech!)
  
  
• Be extra vigilant. Don't get too caught up in your social visit that you forget to watch for your child's potty signs. After all, if your kid's having too much fun, he'll definitely not be thinking about the potty!
  
  
• Don't stress over accidents. If your child has an accident, just give him a hug and say "Oh no! Looks like you had an accident! Next time, let me know and I'll help you go!" Then ask your kind hostess for a rag and help your kid clean it up.

Remember: Other people's houses (and other people's bathrooms) are definitely out of your kid's comfort zone. (and probably not in yours!) The more comfortable you both can be to go-go-go anywhere (and everywhere!), the more confident you and he will be!

Bottoms Up!

Where'd you go on potty tour? Share your answer in the comments below!

For more potty training advice from Teri Crane, check out her potty training tips.

Talk to other potty training parents who are also in the pee-pee & poo-poo trenches on our Toddlers & Preschoolers Message Board!