Potty training your toddler can be daunting, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. With so many different potty training methods, it can take time to determine which one would work best for your family. Fortunately, the Oh Crap potty training approach is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this milestone with ease.
What is the Oh Crap Potty Training Method?
The Oh Crap potty training method is a comprehensive guide to potty training your child one step at a time. It comes from the book Oh Crap! Potty Training: Everything Modern Parents Need to Know to Do It Once and Do It Right by Jamie Glowacki, a potty training and parenting expert.
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The method consists of six Parts, each focusing on specific potty training skills. Once your child has mastered a Part, they move on to the next one. To successfully implement this method, you must clear your calendar for at least a few days.
What is the best age to start the Oh Crap potty training method?
According to Glowacki, the best age to start potty training your child is between 20 and 30 months, but there is still time if you’ve missed this window of opportunity. Most pediatricians agree that toddlers are physically ready to begin potty training around 18 months. Whether they’re cognitively and emotionally prepared will depend on your child. Here are some signs of potty training readiness to look for: To determine if your child is ready, look for signs such as curiosity about the toilet, awareness of when they need to go, ability to dress and undress themselves, ability to follow simple directions and dislike of wearing a wet or soiled diaper.
What Are the Oh Crap Potty Training Parts?
Potty training can be divided into six Parts that build upon each other.
Part 1 is about introducing your child to the potty quickly by having them go naked. During this time, you should stay home so your child can easily access a toilet. You can remind your child to use the potty and watch them closely. Accidents are normal and will help your child learn. Once your child can use the potty consistently, you can move on to Part 2.
Part 2 is about having your child wear pants but no underwear. You can still stay at home and give reminders to use the potty. If your child is doing well, consider going on a short outing. When your child can use the potty while wearing pants, you can move on to Part 3.
Part 3 is about being able to use the potty anywhere you go. During this Part, your child will still be going commando. It’s common for children to be afraid of public restrooms, but be patient and keep trying. Once your child can use the potty anywhere, it’s time for Part 4.
Part 4 is about having your child wear big kid underwear and pants. They may still need reminders to use the potty, and you can use a schedule if necessary. Once they can go without accidents while fully dressed, they can move on to Part 5.
Part 5 is about having your child self-initiate going to the potty. They may have accidents at first, but that’s normal. You can give occasional reminders, but let them do it independently. When they can self-initiate consistently, they have mastered daytime potty training.
Part 6 is about night-time and naptime training. If your child is already staying dry at night, switch to underwear and see how they do. If they still have wet diapers, you can try night training. Once your child can stay dry all night, they are fully potty trained.
How Long Does the Oh Crap Potty Training Method Take?
The Oh Crap Potty Training Method advises parents to focus on mastering individual skills rather than following a strict timeline. It’s essential to move on to the next skill only after mastering it. The time it takes for each child to move through the Parts may vary.
Does the Oh Crap Potty Training Method work?
Many parents have found success with this method of potty training. However, it’s important to remember that each child’s progress may vary. Being consistent and not resorting to diapers is critical. Also, progressing to the next Part should only be done when the current one has been mastered.
What are some mistakes parents make with Oh Crap potty training?
When parents are new to potty training, they can often make mistakes. Some of these mistakes include using diapers too often and setting unrealistic expectations. Focusing on your child’s progress is crucial to avoid these mistakes.
Here are some common mistakes that parents make when using the Oh Crap Method:
- Waiting for readiness: It is only sometimes necessary for a child to show signs of readiness for potty training to be successful.
- Using diapers as an option: Children may feel they need more motivation to potty train if they feel like they can use a diaper. It is best to go back to diapers slowly.
- Leaving the potty seat out: Leaving it in the living room may cause children to use it as a toy instead of for its intended purpose. Keep the potty seat in the bathroom.
- Rewards system: Instead of using potty training charts with stickers and rewards, parents should encourage their children positively.
- Saying “it’s okay” to accidents: While parents should not punish their child for accidents, telling them it’s okay may give them the impression that they don’t need to use the potty. Instead, gently remind your child that they should use the potty for pee and poop.
Final Words
Navigating potty training with the Oh Crap method requires dedication, understanding, and a keen awareness of your child’s cues. Celebrate the milestones, learn from the inevitable challenges, and soon enough, you’ll triumphantly find yourself on the other side of potty training. Remember, it’s a journey unique to each family, and with the right approach, you’ll navigate it successfully.