Practice Different Potty Scenarios: Potty Training Boot Camp Challenge

Sure, your kid's potty schedule is somewhat predictable, but it isn't an exact science. Mommy Murphy's Law says that children have to go potty when it's most inconvenient or when you forgot a change of clothes. Plus, if you're visiting Aunt Ginny, or if you're on a playdate at a friend's house, you can't always control the toilet scenario. That's why having your toddler practice going potty in different situations (and at different times of the day) can help avoid car seat accidents, half-naked "topplers" and close encounters with icky gas station bathrooms.

Here's how to switch up the potty routine:

• Change up the timing. One day, your toddler will be able to go potty on command (really!). Today, sit your child on the potty at a time where she usually doesn't go and see if she can, simply because you asked her to. Even if it's just a dribble, it counts! So pour on the praise and rewards!
  
  
• Change up the location.: Sometimes a change of scenery can throw some children for a loop. So to get your kid comfy anywhere, use a bathroom that your kid doesn't usually frequent (like the Master bathroom), or try moving his potty chair to a different room (or even the backyard, if you're so inclined!).
  
  
• Change up the potty type. Your child has hopefully bonded with his potty by now. So help him bond with ALL potties. If you have them, introduce an on-the-go potty or an adapter seat and have your kid try them out too!
  
  
• Use a big potty. If your toddler has only been using her potty chair, a big potty might seem big and scary. If you want to try using a big potty without an adapter seat, hold your child like she's getting a hug and sit her on the potty. If she acts scared or uncomfortable, take her off and try again in a few weeks.

Remember: Give your child the opportunity to in a variety of places and situations so he can be prepared for any (and every) potty scenario. (Just make sure he doesn't pee in your neighbor's prized potted azaleas!)

Bottoms Up!

When and where did you practice? Share your answers 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!