Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to motivate your child during potty training.
Rewards can make the experience more fun and rewarding, reinforcing the desired behaviour and celebrating each small step towards victory. Below are some creative and effective potty training reward ideas that can help make this journey smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
1. Sticker Charts
Sticker charts are a classic and highly effective potty training reward system. Here’s how it works:
- Create or buy a potty training chart: Divide it into sections for different milestones such as “pee,” “poo,” or “attempted to use the potty.”
- Choose fun stickers: Let your child pick out stickers they love, such as stars, animals, or characters from their favourite show.
- Celebrate each achievement: Every time your little one successfully uses the potty or makes an attempt, they get to place a sticker on the chart. Once the chart is full, offer a larger reward, such as a special outing or a small toy.
2. Praise and Applause
Never underestimate the power of simple verbal praise. Children love to know that they’re doing a good job, and hearing it from you can be incredibly motivating.
- Verbal Praise: A simple “Well done!” or “I’m so proud of you!” can go a long way.
- Applause: After each potty trip, give them a round of applause to show that you’re celebrating their effort.
3. Reward Specific Actions
To help your child understand the process, you can reward specific actions like:
- Sitting on the potty: Even if they don’t go, rewarding the attempt can build positive associations.
- Successful pee or poo: Give extra praise and perhaps a bigger sticker or an extra token of appreciation.
- Telling you they need to go: If your child lets you know they need the potty before an accident happens, make sure to reward this behaviour too.
4. Balloons
Balloons are a simple yet delightful reward. They’re visually exciting and can be a great way to mark a potty training success.
- Reward with a balloon: After each successful potty use, give your child a balloon. You can even let them choose the colour or pattern to make it more exciting.
5. Small Toys or Treats
Introducing small toys or treats as rewards can be a big motivator for some children.
- Toys: Consider inexpensive toys such as small figurines, bubbles, or puzzle pieces. You can set up a “prize box” that your child gets to choose from after accumulating a certain number of successful potty uses.
- Treats: You could also offer a small snack or treat, like a piece of fruit, a healthy snack, or even a small sweet.
6. Day Out or Special Activities
For larger milestones, such as consistently using the potty for a whole week, consider a more substantial reward. P.S. Don't forget to bring your My Carry Potty along!
- Day Out: Plan a special day out to their favourite park, zoo, or museum.
- Special Activity: Perhaps a movie night with popcorn, a baking session together, or a playdate with friends.
7. Certificates of Achievement
Create a fun and official-looking certificate for milestones such as “First Pee in the Potty” or “Potty Training Champion of the Week.” You can find templates online or create your own.
- Present it proudly: Hand it to your child in front of the family to make them feel accomplished.
8. Potty Training App Rewards
If you’re using a potty training app, many come with built-in reward systems where children can unlock virtual stickers, games, or characters.
- Track progress digitally: Some apps offer certificates or customisable rewards that can complement your at-home system.
9. Singing and Dancing
Celebrate each successful potty trip with a fun song or dance. This makes the process lighthearted and memorable.
- Create a “Potty Dance”: Make up a silly dance that you and your child can do together after a successful potty trip.
- Sing a special potty song: Singing can help make the routine more enjoyable and less stressful.
10. Balloon and Confetti Surprise
For a really big milestone, like staying dry all day, consider a mini-celebration with balloons and confetti. You can keep a few in a drawer and pull them out as a surprise reward.
With these reward ideas, you can turn the process into a fun and rewarding experience for your toddler. Remember, the key is consistency and making sure your child feels proud of their progress. Rewards, whether small or large, help reinforce positive behaviour and make the potty training journey a memorable and successful one.
Happy potty training! 🎉