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Potty training is one of the most common parenting milestones and often, one of the most stressful. In this episod, we offer a refreshing grace-filled perspective that rather than chasing quick fixes or rigid timelines, invites parents to slow down, follow their child’s cues, and see this developmental stage as an opportunity to walk with their child.

Blending research, practical steps, and biblical encouragement, this episode reframes potty training as a joy-filled process of growth (as much as it can be), independence, and discipleship.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction: Why potty training feels stressful for so many parents
[00:04:30] When to begin: Signs of readiness, developmental timing, and early interest
[00:08:00] First steps: Preparing your environment and changing your expectations
[00:13:30] Nighttime training strategies: Sheets, plastic covers, and grace
[00:19:00] Language tips: Avoiding phrases like “Do it for Mommy”

3 Takeaways

1. Potty training is your child’s developmental work not a performance to manage or a schedule to control. When you treat it as a learning process rather than a task to complete, you reduce pressure and increase joy.
2. Encouragement beats rewards. Positive reinforcement rooted in celebration, praise, and connection is more effective than material rewards or punishments. Visuals, routines, and sibling examples help build independence.
3. God invites us to walk with our children in every milestone including potty training. With patience, presence, and prayer, we can guide them through this stage as a form of loving discipleship.

Please send us your questions if you'd like to have them discussed on the podcast: [email protected]

The Mind of a Child is an early child development podcast that exists to encourage and equip parents to raise their kids to love God and love others. If you're looking for Biblical principles, practical parenting solutions, and science-backed research, our discussions are specifically tailored for you. Our hosts are Leslie Dudley Corbell and Diane Doucet Matthews, who each have a combined 50+ years of experience in the early child parenting space.