iVillage

20 Proven Potty Training Tips from Parents Who've Been There

Part leap of faith, part clean-up job -- toilet training your child can be a messy business. Follow these mom and dad-tested success strategies to help get through it! (21 Photos)

Dina Roth Port on Sep 5, 2012 at 11:18AM

chime in now

Single View
View All

1 of 21

20 Proven Potty Training Tips from Parents Who've Been There

Peter Dazeley/Photographer's Choice/Getty Images

Smart Solutions to Help Your Kid Ditch Diapers

Sure, potty training is a major rite of passage for all children, but it also can be downright stressful for Mom and Dad. The good news: It doesn't have to be! We asked parents whose little ones have already made the big transition for their best suggestions on how to ditch the diapers and stay sane in the process. Here's how to get through those messy days.

Go Cold Turkey
"As soon as you think your child is ready to potty train, then pounce -- just go for it and get it over with. When we thought the time was right, my wife stayed home with our daughter, Megan, gave her lots of water to drink, and let her run around in her underwear while she took her to the bathroom on a regular basis. Within three days, Megan gave up her diapers for good and has barely had an accident since." -- Mike, dad to Megan, 2