Detail + Confidence = Potty Success

I started my last blog post by stating that I’m a laid back person, and I’m going to start this one by stating that I am also a detail-oriented person. Strange combination, I know. I never said I wasn’t strange. I always notice the little things. In many ways, being detail-oriented is a total nuisance. For example, I notice when sizes aren’t in order on retail racks, and I often correct them (as if I have the time). You can imagine how difficult it is for me to shop at TJMaxx and Nordstrom Rack! Hmm…I suppose one could argue that this example is more indicative of organizational behavior. Whatever. There I go being detail-oriented again! Yes, I’m very organizational too.

Ok, well, if I didn’t already lose you with that crazy self-description, I’ll get to the point: When it comes to potty training Linnea, my attention to detail has been anything but a nuisance. It has actually helped immensely. It has given me the ability to notice even the slightest change in her facial expression, which has been key in helping her make it to the potty. Now, I’ve been catching these fleeting moments since she was born, and I’ve been asking her if she’d like to use the potty for months, but it was just within the past week that she finally responded “Yes” instead of “NO!” This sudden change in desire has made me wish more than ever that I could read her little mind. What I wouldn’t give to know what finally clicked! She never responded to incentives such as M&Ms, jelly beans, or stickers, so I know it’s not due to incentive. I’ll just assume she decided being wet and soiled doesn’t feel good, and now that she has decent control of her bowel function, it’s more fun to go to the potty.

This is how I found her after she ran up the stairs last night saying, “I have to go pee pee!”

Yep – I almost fell over trying not to laugh as I discreetly took the photo.

So, this potty thing has added a whole new dynamic to our days. I’m always on guard watching Linnea for potty cues. I’m constantly paying attention to her facial expressions, body movements, and behaviors (ex.”hiding” in my closet). I know, I know – as if I don’t have enough to pay attention to already, right?! Don’t get me wrong, I’m still completely a “no pressure” potty trainer, but I feel like it’s my duty to catch the cues and remind her what she’s supposed to do with them. I probably ask her if she needs to use the potty every hour or two. It seems to work perfectly. She hasn’t had an accident in over a week. She has even woken up a couple mornings with a dry diaper. I could hardly believe it. This kid used to soak through overnight diapers all the time. Anyway, I think Linnea and I make a good potty training team. My attention to detail paired with her confident nature works in our favor for this developmental milestone. Overall, this potty training thing has been a smooth process….and, dare I say, kind of fun! I guess God decided to give me a break this time.

Advertisement