How To Resume Potty Training After Setbacks (Vacation, New Sibling, New School, Divorce)

Your life may have been crazy for the last few months, but now your are ready to settle into a more child-focused potty training time. Chances are your child will be happy to be the center of attention again after all the other family excitement. Put out your potty antennae to see if your child is interested now. If not, the first step is to generate interest about a truly fun potty adventure.

• Get ready with your songs, games, and positive potty routines.

• Throw out a few gentle reminders, "WE'VE BEEN SO BUSY_____, NOW WE HAVE TIME TO THINK ABOUT THE POTTY AGAIN."

• Use humor. Be dramatic, "ONE WEEK WITH YOUR GRANDPARENTS AND LOOK WHAT HAPPENS! LETS TRY THOSE PULL UPS AGAIN NOW THAT YOU'RE HOME AND READY."

• Emphasize the fun potty experiences but still have no specific potty expectations. Follow your child's interest.

• Reschedule a potty weekend or naked noons when your child seems ready and interested. Otherwise, keep building interest in other positive ways.