Potty Time!

Well, I think that we have passed the point in which I might jinx myself by writing this post, so here it is.  Our potty training story.

Full time potty training started about 4 weeks ago.  I wasn't feeling the greatest one Wednesday and knew that we would be home all day, which kind of seems like the most ridiculous time to start potty training, but we started any way.  I heard that going completely pants less worked for friends, so I tried that.  But, after the second or third time he peed in the floor, I was completely over cleaning it up.

So, we turned to 3 Day Potty Training, which my friend Kristen recommended.  She told me that it had worked on both her daughter and her son, who is younger than Reed.  So, a big thanks should be given to Kristen for pointing me in this direction because this is ultimately the method that worked.  And while I am thanking Kristen, I want to send a big congratulations to her and her family on the arrival of their new little one, Crosby!

Back to potty training, I completely did a 180 after purchasing the 3 day potty training book and reading through it.  No more timeouts for an accident.  Underwear would always be worn.  No more asking Reed if he had to go potty every 15 minutes.  The method in this book is about recognizing the signs that your child is about to go potty and get them to the potty before they go.  An accident is blown off, but any form of success is highly praised.  This method worked so much better for Reed.  I should have known that the kid would never be potty trained if we were constantly punishing him.  He pretty much refuses to sit in timeout, so the punishment is pretty much on us.

Reed caught on quickly.  I made the mistake of not dedicating 3 full days to at home, no distractions potty training that the book recommends and it still worked for us.  I sent him to school in underwear a few weeks ago.  Reed is very shy and timid around people other than us, so I was extremely nervous that he wouldn't tell his teachers, but he did so good.  Sure, he had his share of accidents for a week or so but after that, he's been so good.  We are so extremely proud of him.

And, I can't recommend the 3 Day Potty Training guide enough.  If you do end up buying the book, make sure to search for coupon codes for a discount.  I certainly think that different methods work for different kids, but this one worked for us.  Good luck on your potty training adventure!  We are so proud of our big boy!

I know you guys don't want a post without a picture of our cutie, so here he is in all his potty trained glory, and sweatbands and a headband, lol!  Teal will be happy that these are getting some use!