The Problem: My child is doing really well with potty training but I’m afraid she”ll regress while we”re on vacation. How can we enjoy our trip while still keeping potty training progress going
The Expert: Dr. Debra Berry, Lone Tree Pediatrics and Chair of Pediatrics at Sky Ridge Medical Center
The Solution: It really depends on how far along in the process you are and how well your tyke adjusts to some minor changes in his or her routine. As with any learning experience, flexibility is key. I routinely recommend sticking with your potty training plan even while on vacation, otherwise, you will start the process over when you arrive home.
- Stick to familiar habits as much as possible, even when traveling. There are great items on the internet such as toddler potty seats and travel potty chairs that can make the travel experience less stressful for kids and parents.
- Consider setting the alarm on your phone to schedule potty breaks rather than asking your child if he or she has to go.
- Bring along plenty of plastic bags for your travel potty or soiled clothes.
- Accidents will happen so bring along extra clothes and seat covers—whatever will make it easier for you to minimize clean up time and enjoy a fun family experience.
- Maintain the reward system you’ve been using for training even while traveling.
Finally, the most important aspect about potty training is a positive attitude. No matter how frustrated you may feel, you have to keep it in perspective. This is temporary. You will emerge on the other side with a potty-trained child. The advice I like to give is from an article on potty training resistance: “Avoid the battle—win the war!” If your child perceives that this is too important and you are trying too hard to make it happen, they are more likely to resist.
