Process of Potty Training

For Christmas Samuel got a potty chair and some Thomas the Train undies. On Saturday he went peepee in the potty for the very first time. My boy is growing up and I'm so proud of him.

But, I am in no hurry for him to be fully potty trained. I know the time must come. Everyone eventually uses the toilet. But, contrary to what some may believe, potty training a child is not easier than just changing a diaper.

When Judah has to use the bathroom out in public that means I take all three kids in with me. If we are somewhere without a cart or stroller (Barnes and Noble) I, mostly likely, have a baby strapped to my chest, have to pull down the pants of the big boy, help him on the toilet, flush, wipe, and wash his hands, all while keeping my toddler from touching anything. Hard feat to accomplish!

Public toilets are disgusting. If Judah just has to pee it works out pretty well. We don't have to touch the toilet at all. (I use my foot to flush.) But, if he has to poop, that means sitting on the toilet. The cover things aren't easy to keep on and he can't just sit he has to hold on to the toilet with both hands. Gross, I know.

If we are at a place where we have a cart (like Target) I either have to get everyone out (huge hassle!) or drag the cart in and ignore the "No carts past this point" sign. I usually choose the latter and figure if any workers see me in there with the kids they won't dare say anything. It's worked so far.

When a child is first potty training you have a limited amount of time to get to the bathroom. When they say they have to go you rush to the nearest toilet, to avoid accidents. With the three kids, mind you.

So, I know the day is coming, and is very near, where my second boy will be fully potty training. But, for now, I'm not in any hurry. He can stay little for as long as he wants.

PS One thing that really bothers me is parents who discipline their children for having accidents. Most accidents are just that, accidents. If parents are spanking, belittling, or making kids feel bad for that it is more than horrible. Dare I say, it's abuse. Kids all progress at their own pace and, like I said before, all eventually are completely potty trained.