It was a packed house on Saturday at Neighborhood Parents Network Swellbeing. I assumed this seminar would be extremely popular because unlocking the secret to potty training before the age of three is the Holy Grail for today’s parents. Expectant moms and dads along with parents of newborns to three year olds attended anxious to learn more about a instituting a diaper free household.
As an advocate of early potty training, my oldest was trained by 20 months and we started our 16 month old at 9 months, I was very excited to hear what a licensed clinical mental health counselor had to say. I was also hoping to learn new tips so we can officially be diaper free in two months. What can I say; I’m trying to beat my first record.
I was pleasantly surprised when Janeen began her presentation explaining why over the past 20 years potty training has gone from kiddos being out of diapers between 1- 2 years of age to now 2- 3 years of age.
Turns out this delay in potty training began with endorsements by Dr Spock that discouraged directive training and emphasized accommodating children’s feelings and catering to their preferences. Well, that certainly explains a lot.
It was also around this time that disposable diapers entered the market. Let’s face it, while diapers are a convenience they also allow us the ability to prolong the inevitable. Janeen went on to clarify that parents can start potty training at any age and there is not necessarily a “right time”. Readiness signs can be the grunts or noises your child makes when they go potty or poop in the diaper.
Benefits of early training:
- Eliminate diaper rash
- Improved bladder
- More hygienic
- Financial cost
The seminar was extremely informative and ended with a wonderful Q& A session. I had the opportunity to ask Janeen what working parents should do when their child is in a daycare facility. How do they ensure the childcare providers will execute an early potty training schedule when that is not typically the norm? She suggested that parents give thought to this when selecting a facility and ask specific questions during the interview process. It is important to know the potty training philosophy and experience of any child care provider (in and out of home).
I walked away reminded of techniques that had been successful with my eldest, but somehow we had forgotten to implement the second time around. My confidence is definitely rejuvenated and I am even more determined that my family will be diaper free by March!!
If you missed this amazing event and need assistance with potty training, Swellbeing is hosting a webinar January 26 and February 23rd from 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm EST for $35. Janeen shares expert knowledge and reserves time for questions. Take advantage of webinars covering various topics such as sibling preparation, raising an emotionally intelligent child, infant and toddler sleep solutions and positive discipline. Login from the comfort of your home or office, sit back, and take it all in. It’s just that easy! http://swellbeing.com/registration.html
For information about Neighborhood Parents Network and to attend future Parent University classes sponsored by Country Financial visit http://www.npnparents.org/parentUniversity.asp.
Sassy Moms in the City is a proud member of Neighborhood Parents Network since 2007.
