Potty training is a significant milestone for your child, but it can become a bit challenging when you're on the go or out for an outing. However, with the right strategies and preparation, you can navigate these situations smoothly. In this blog post, we will provide you with practical advice on how to handle potty training while traveling or during outings, including using public restrooms and dealing with accidents outside the home. We will also mention some helpful products like "My Carry Potty" and "My Little Training Pants" to assist you along the way.
- Plan Ahead and Be Prepared:
- Before heading out, locate nearby restrooms or family-friendly facilities at your destination.
- Pack a portable potty, such as "My Carry Potty." These compact and self-contained potties are easy to carry and provide a familiar place for your child to use when a restroom isn't available.
- Pack spare pants and changes of clothes incase of accidents and make sure they are easily accessible so you don't have to open a big suitcase or dig into the boot of the car to find them!
- Familiarise Your Child with Public Restrooms:
- Visit public restrooms together during non-emergency situations. Explain and demonstrate the process, such as flushing the toilet and using the sink, to help your child feel comfortable and confident.
- Keep disinfectant wipes or a travel-sized hand sanitiser handy to maintain cleanliness.
- You can bring your own trainer seat if they use this at home to bring to help them feel more comfortable when using restrooms.
- Timing is Key:
- Encourage your child to use the restroom before leaving home or a hotel. This preemptive measure can minimise the need for urgent bathroom breaks while you're on the go.
- Plan regular potty breaks during long trips or outings. Use the opportunity to stretch, use the restroom, and reinforce good habits.
- Bring Essential Supplies:
- Pack extra changes of clothes, including "My Little Training Pants," to handle accidents. These training pants provide added protection to catch small accidents, while still promoting independence during the potty training process.
- Carry disposable or reusable potty training seat covers to ensure a hygienic and child-friendly environment in public restrooms. They may have one at home they like to use, bring this if and where you can!
- Stay Calm and Positive:
- Accidents may happen despite your best efforts. Stay calm and reassure your child that accidents are a part of the learning process.
- Carry a small wet bag or sealable plastic bag to store soiled clothes until you can clean them later.
- If you are training your little one in big girl/big boy pants, bring puppy training pads and pop them in their car seat to help protect the car seat.
- Maintain Consistency:
- Stick to your established potty training routines and techniques, even when away from home. Consistency will reinforce the desired behaviours and help your child understand that potty training rules apply regardless of the location.
- If you are using a reward system at home, try to continue this on your travels. Pack some rewards and stickers to keep this going!
- Celebrate Success:
- Praise and reward your child's successful potty trips during outings. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue using the potty outside the familiar home environment.
Potty training on the go doesn't have to be overwhelming. By planning ahead, being prepared, and following these practical tips, you can navigate traveling and outings while maintaining your child's progress in potty training. Remember to stay patient, provide encouragement, and make use of helpful products like "My Carry Potty" and "My Little Training Pants" to ease the process. With a little preparation and a positive mindset, you and your child can confidently conquer potty training outside the home.