Potty training a toddler is always an adventure, but when there’s an older sibling in the mix, it adds a whole new layer of dynamics to the process. Here’s a candid look at how we’re tackling potty training the second time around and what’s been working for us (and what hasn’t).
Getting the Older Sibling Involved
Tip: Reward your older child with small treats to encourage their participation in potty training. One tip I’ve heard and implemented is involving the older sibling by giving them small rewards for helping out. For example, if my oldest encourages my toddler to use the potty or helps grab supplies, I’ll reward her with a treat. This not only makes her feel included but also turns potty training into a team effort. Let’s be honest—a little motivation goes a long way when it comes to keeping the older sibling engaged!
A Different Approach This Time Around
Potty training my first child, Riley, was a different experience altogether. Back then, all my attention was on her, and we had the luxury of setting a strict schedule. With two kids now, my time is split, and flexibility has become key. Potty training a toddler alongside managing an older sibling’s schedule has meant adjusting expectations and finding creative solutions to keep everyone on board.
Prepping for Success
Must-Haves for Potty Training:
- Toddler underwear and training pants
- Sanitizer wipes for public restrooms
- Water wipes for messes
- A travel potty seat (check out my favorite on Amazon!)
- Extra clothes and diapers for emergencies Preparation is everything when it comes to potty training. Here’s what’s been in our arsenal:
- Toddler underwear and training pants: These help create a sense of independence for my little one.
- Sanitizer wipes: A must for wiping down public restroom seats—because let’s face it, toddlers love touching everything.
- Water wipes: Regular toilet paper just doesn’t cut it for cleaning up a messy situation. We’ve ditched flushable wipes after learning they can clog the toilet.
- Travel potty seat: I’m a big fan of the travel potty seat we found on Amazon. It’s compact and makes using public restrooms much easier for my toddler.
- Extra clothes and diapers: Yes, I’ll admit it—I still carry a diaper around for emergencies. There are days when an accident could push me over the edge, and having a backup plan gives me peace of mind.
The Learning Curve
Pro Tip: Patience is key! Use small rewards and keep distractions handy to help your toddler stay on the potty. Potty training has been a rocky start this time around. My little one is fiercely independent, which means she insists on doing everything herself. This often results in her refusing to sit on the potty for long enough. On particularly busy days, I’ve resorted to letting her have some screen time while she’s on the potty—a small compromise to keep things moving when I’m juggling work and parenting.
We’ve also noticed that she’s more interested in using the “big girl potty.” This is exciting progress, but it also means being extra diligent about cleaning public restroom seats (thank you, sanitizer wipes!) because there’s no stopping her curiosity.
Strategies That Work
Fun Ideas to Keep Them on the Potty:
- Seek-and-find books
- “I Spy” games
- Handheld toys or games Staying consistent with rewards has been a game-changer. We’re using a mix of M&M’s and a sticker system to celebrate every success. Additionally, I’ve found that keeping her entertained while she’s on the potty helps her stay put. Some of our favorite activities include:
How It’s Going So Far
Three weeks in, and we’re making progress. I’ve realized it’s best to take her to the potty without asking if she needs to go. She’s starting to recognize the sensation to pee when she’s on the potty, which feels like a win, even if it’s mostly prompted by me. For now, it’s a one-way street—my effort is driving this process—but I’m optimistic that she’ll start taking more initiative as we continue.
Potty training with an older sibling in tow has its challenges, but it’s also a rewarding experience as we navigate this milestone together. With patience, preparation, and a little help from my big kid, we’re making it through one step at a time.
What Are Your Tips?
I’d love to hear how other parents approach potty training, especially with multiple kids in the house. What’s worked for you, and what would you do differently? Connect with me by subscribing to my email or DM me through my TikTok and Instagram pages—I’m always looking for fresh ideas to make this journey smoother!
