Potty Training For The First Time Parent

Most parents think potty training is a race. It’s not. It’s a journey — for your child and for you. The more pressure you apply, the harder it becomes. The more trust you give, the smoother it goes.

The Young Doctor from Hong Kong

Years ago, I sat through a long, dry conference on child development. Then came a young doctor, fresh from Hong Kong, where families lived on boats and barges.

He said:

“There’s no potty training done on the boats. The children just learn when and where to go naturally, like everything else. No books. No charts. No endless practice. Just life happening.”

That one line changed how I thought about this whole process.

Here’s the truth about potty training:

1. Start When They’re Ready, Not When You Are

Watch for signs: dry nappies, curiosity, questions. Let your child set the pace. Push too soon, and you’re just making more work for both of you.

2. Forget Perfect, Aim for Progress

Some days, it’s easy. The next, you’re cleaning up accidents. That’s how it works. This isn’t a straight line. It’s a dance. Stay patient.

3. Skip the Judgement — There Is No “Right” Way

What worked for your neighbour may be a disaster for you. Let go of judgment, find the method that fits your family, and stay the course.

4. Use Incentives, Not Bribes

A simple “well done” goes further than a reward chart that becomes a circus. Stay real. Stay simple.

5. Timing Is Everything

Trying to potty train during a big move or a family wedding? You’re setting yourself up for struggle. Pick a quiet, predictable week when routine can be your ally.

6. Be Ready for Setbacks

Every parent sees setbacks. They’re a sign of learning, not failure. Stay calm, stay patient, and treat every “no accident” day as a win.

7. Make It Fun

Turn it into a game. Make it a story. Let it be an adventure. The moment you tense up, your child will too.

8. The Bathroom Is Just Another Room

Make it familiar. Read a book together in there. Let them explore until it feels safe and normal.

9. Expect Regression

A long car ride, a new school, a change at home, setbacks happen. Stay the course. What’s learned is never truly lost.

10. Remember Whose Journey This Is

It’s their process, not yours. You’re the guide, not the drill sergeant. Let them own it, in their time.

Potty training is a natural process raher than a race, and it certainly isn’t a measure of how well you parent. It’s a chapter in their life and yours — a lesson in trust, patience, and resilience.

As that young doctor said, “Out on the boat, the children just learned. No pressure. No rush.” Sometimes, that’s the best lesson of all.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to start potty training?

Look for signs — dry nappies, curiosity about the toilet, or verbal cues. Let your child lead.

What if my child regresses?

It’s normal. Changes in routine, stress, or new environments can cause setbacks. Stay calm and restart with patience.

Are incentives okay?

Yes, if kept simple. A word of encouragement works better than elaborate reward charts.

How long should potty training take?

Every child is different. It may take a few days, a few weeks, or longer. The goal is trust and comfort, not speed.

What if I’ve tried and nothing’s working?

Pause. Revisit when your child shows more interest. Sometimes a short break makes all the difference.

👉 Read this post and learn how to make potty training a calmer, more natural process — for both of you. You’ll gain a roadmap, a fresh mindset, and practical tips to help your child find their rhythm. Plus, don’t miss the FAQs for quick help whenever you need it.

Kids learn by living.

So let go of the burden, and let them take their time.

That’s when the real progress begins.