Summer & Potty Training
Are you traveling this summer with a freshly potty-trained toddler? Or, are the travelers coming to you?
Your toddler can stay successful with potty training during these changes. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help them make those tinkles and toots in the potty!
Traveling by Plane
We have a whole blog on this! It even includes recommended products :)
But, here’s our top tips for traveling with a recently-potty trained toddler in a plane.
Prep your little one ahead of time. Explain what will happen, use social stories, role play, etc.!
Include extra time - get to the airport earlier than you would without a toddler. Why? Extra bathroom trips and, well… toddlers will be toddlers HAH
Bring extra supplies. Think: undies, clothes, wipes, sanitizer.
Roadtrip!
Maybe not as fun as the roadtrip you took in college :P
Tips for roadtripping with a toddler who recently learned to use the potty:
Have your child use the potty right before they hop in the car to leave the house.
If it’s a long ride, stop about every 2 hours for a trip to the potty - you can use a public restroom OR bring a travel potty safely stored in the trunk of your car.
Give a few extra reminders during your drive. Make sure your little one knows that they can tell you if they need to go potty.
Extra clothes should be easily accessible - just in case!
Potty Training: Summer Travel & Family Visits
Enjoy all the summer fun!!
Visiting with family
Tell your family ahead of time if there is anything you would like them to do to help set your toddler up for success during the visit.
If your child prefers a little potty or toilet seat topper, bring it with you. Your family likely won't mind the extra little potty in their guest bathroom!
Help make the bathroom feel familiar. Bring some books & toys from how to keep in the bathroom that your child will be using.
Practice using the “new bathroom” and help your child feel supported and comfortable in this new space.
Provide some extra reminders and take them for a potty sit before transitions. Ex: “First let’s go potty and wash hands, then we can have dessert!”
If you’re still using rewards at home, bring some with you. This is a new challenge for your little one and they may need some reinforcements.
Visitors coming to your house
Have your child use the potty before visitors arrive.
If you’re using a little potty, keep it in a space they are familiar with - family will understand!
While it’s easy to become distracted by guests (for both you and your child), don’t forget to check in with your little one and give them a reminder or two if needed. Just remember, the change in routine can be a little stressful for everyone (toddlers included) so stay consistent with your potty plan.
If there is anything you want your visitors to know about your toddler’s potty training, tell them!
Going on a summer outing
As soon as you arrive, show your child the bathroom, make sure the toilet is accessible, and have them try to go.
Give some extra reminders during the outing. For example, when you pass by a bathroom - point it out!
Occasionally provide reminders or take them for a potty sit before transitions. Ex: “First let’s go potty and wash hands, then we can have dessert!”
Don’t forget some extra clothes. Accidents happen, especially in the beginning stages of potty training, and while everyone is off of their normal routine. Remember, this is a learning process!
