A word on potty training

Months ago we thought Braden was ready to use the potty. 

Or maybe we were ready for him to use the potty… yeah, that sounds right! 

I bought big boy undies + m&ms to bribe him, but it wasn't working! 

There were only accidents and lots of crying every time I sat him on the potty. 

I had a handful of people telling me he should be using the potty, 

but the freaking out every time I put him on the potty told me otherwise! 

That's the thing, others can tell you what you should be doing,

however, you really have to do what works for you and your child! 

This time, I took cues from my boy!

I decided that it was too much for us at the time and that I'd wait until after he turned 3! 

So I did and let me tell you, it was a completely different experience! 

Now, I'm going to tell you how it went for us and all, 

but remember I ain't your kiddos mama and I ain't you, 

so do what works for YOU! 

Maybe these things will work, maybe not! 

Clearly, we tried, failed, and then waited! 

I think that may happen with a lot of kiddos. 

A lot of trying, a lot of accidents, and a lot of waiting! 

I read a blog post that said wait until they were older because older kids will potty train quicker.

I would have to agree!

It was like a switch went off in Braden's mind and he just got it easier. 

Now, I'm not saying he went instantly, but he was more willing to go! 

There were way less tears and he sat longer. 

He also understood what was going on when he actually did go! 

Another big thing I learned is that you have to tell them when to go! 

I asked Braden a billion times if he needed to go potty. 

Every single time in the beginning I was met with a shake of the head and a, "NO!" 

Well, that wasn't true and then I had accidents to deal with. 

It was frustrating, but it wasn't his fault because really he didn't know he had to go. 

Not to mention he didn't want to stop what he was doing to go use the potty! 

When I made him go (sometimes there were tears) we had a lot less accidents. 

Know that there will be accidents. For a while. 

I'm convinced that Braden is mostly potty trained, but he still has accidents. 

He often tells me when he has to go. 

When he doesn't and has an accident, 

you can bet its because he doesn't want to stop playing to go! 

He isn't potty trained for night or number two, but that will come. 

I'm just happy that he's getting it and wearing a diaper most of the time! 

He still wears one at night time & quiet time (not giving that up…yet!). 

I would also suggest lots of praise when your kiddo does go! 

I would smile, clap, and say, "Yay Braden! You went in the potty! You're a big boy!" 

He would get so excited and give himself praise. 

He still does and its so cute! 

We're all pretty proud over here! 

Lastly, I would say… what you've probably heard a million times. 

Your child will get it. They won't be in diapers forever. They will learn to use the potty. 

It may just take some waiting and lots and lots of patience! 

Good luck to you and yours! =)