Something that worked very well for me and my daughter during the potty training phase was a reward system. I went out and bought a plastic storage jar/container and small items to place inside:

• Stickers
• Candy
• Tattoos
• Toy bracelets and necklaces
• Mini color books

The items vary depending on the gender of your child, but get creative and make this fun! I also decorated the jar with glitter glue, writing her name on it and adding some cute designs.

After I placed all the items inside the jar I showed her the jar and explained to her she would get to choose one item from the jar if she pottied in the toilet whether it was #1 or #2.

Once #1 was no longer an issue, I no longer rewarded her for the #1 since she was past that stage and routinely used the toilet. Instead I would keep praising her on how proud I was of her.

I would refill the jar, as items were chosen, with new things to hold her interest. It didn't take her long to do #2. She was rewarded and I praised her on what a big girl she was. I think praise is very important!

She also got to choose her own hand soap for the bathroom. Children like to be involved in the little things.

Also when shopping with your child, show them the "big boy" or "big girl" underwears they will get to have when they no longer go in their diaper or pull-up. They will be so excited to choose since most toddler underwear have popular characters on them.

Another helpful item that I used was the toddler toilet seat attachment that is easily placed on top of the regular toilet seat, that way they won't be scared of falling in and can sit securely as they do their business.

I hope this helps and good luck!

~ Alison