It has finally happened with child number one, we are diaper free. Of course we are not a completely diaper free household as number two continues to sport the disposable pants, but for some reason the 50 percent reduction feels more like an 80 percent reduction; a reduction in time, effort and in trash.
Potty training seemed to take forever and happen overnight simultaneously. I think starting just after his second birthday I started to optimistically introduce the potty. I tried to do it right, getting a cute book and making a big deal out of the potty and how it’s the perfect little size for a perfect little tushy. By two and a half we utilized a practice chart where Will was awarded a sticker for every practice. We quickly earned pages full of really cool transportation stickers reflecting a ton of “good practice”. Practice of course was really just sitting on the seat without producing a thing, so in hindsight I reinforced doing nothing…… Later we offered prizes for the production of a tangible product which seemed strangely unattainable for the longest time.
Potty training seemed to take forever and happen overnight simultaneously. I think starting just after his second birthday I started to optimistically introduce the potty. I tried to do it right, getting a cute book and making a big deal out of the potty and how it’s the perfect little size for a perfect little tushy. By two and a half we utilized a practice chart where Will was awarded a sticker for every practice. We quickly earned pages full of really cool transportation stickers reflecting a ton of “good practice”. Practice of course was really just sitting on the seat without producing a thing, so in hindsight I reinforced doing nothing…… Later we offered prizes for the production of a tangible product which seemed strangely unattainable for the longest time.
William sizing up a tractor at Drumlin Farm.
What makes the transition so frustrating for moms & dads is that we know that they know when they have to go. How many times did I see my reluctant little one hide in a corner and make “that face”.
Me (noticing the grimace of passage) “Hey do you want to sit on the potty?” Will (making the face, turning red, holding his breath, and gesturing a swat like wave) “No, go away.” This exchange seemed to last for months. It was especially frustrating when it was super messy or irritating to him. My logical side would try to appeal to his logical side – but really – what 2 ½ - 3 year old is logical? Again ... waste of time. Making fancy brownies with Auntie Jane.
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Then in October something powerful happened, another mom and I joined forces and decided this was the week that we would be diaper free (the plus side of peer pressure). The Preschool teachers too were totally on board, ready to change messy pants as needed. Day one: 4 accidents, Day two: 2 accidents (a 50% reduction) and by Day 3 were we almost in the clear. I say almost because, for some reason, training for the front half was easier than the back. That certainly took a bit more time and coaxing. We ramped up the potty prizes for this portion. Luckily, I had a multi-pack of Match Box cars in the house and could immediately reward him for a correct disposal. I’d rather pick up a car than clean if you know what I mean….
One of the "fun" parts about potty training was the need to have a potty available. I carted around a potty in the back of my car when I knew we were not going to be close to one. New car smell it is not. Once without it, when we were apple picking at a farm, I took Will (multiple times I might add as we still had not fully mastered knowing "the feeling") to a port-o-potty. Almost lost him that day as he shifted his weight the one second I had turned my head. I heard his gasp and turned back to see him half way down. Lucky for him he had the strength to cling with both arms and legs. Pulling him up I kept thinking: thank goodness he did not fall in totally or I will never get him out of diapers!!
Of course the end of the diaper is far from the end of my involvement in these processes. For some reason I am now called to sit in the room to chat and witness the event in all its wonder and glory – oh lucky me. Never the less, it is an improvement, even though I still need to wash my hands in the end.
Of course the end of the diaper is far from the end of my involvement in these processes. For some reason I am now called to sit in the room to chat and witness the event in all its wonder and glory – oh lucky me. Never the less, it is an improvement, even though I still need to wash my hands in the end.
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Please do not copy or reproduce without permission.
Links are just fine, though.