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Toilet training and going out
Toilet training and going out can be challenging but if you are well prepared and well equipped it is possible. Some kids only take a few days to toilet train, while others take a few months, so you will need to learn how to manage a child who is being toilet trained when out and about.
I always found with my kids it is better to go cold turkey, ie once you take them out of nappies at home, take them out of nappies when you go out. That way there is no mixed messages, they learn that they go to the toilet no matter where they are (and not in their nappy sometimes), and I found it makes toilet training quicker.
A few tips:
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Preparation is the key - and try to relax and remain calm
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Try and get your child to go to the toilet before you leave so this might ensure the car trip is dry. It is also good to have a car seat protector too, so if they do wet, you can easily wash this and not have to strip the entire car seat down!
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At the shops, park, or wherever you are always find out where your closest parents room or toilet is, so last minute 'I need to do a wee' screams are less stressful. I also keep a travel potty with me everywhere I go, and often use it in the boot of the car when we arrive at our destination, so there is no risk of an accident on the way to a public toilet. They are great too at parks, the beach, on a long car trip (simply [pull over and use next to car) and other places with no toilets.
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The best travel potty we have seen is the Potette Travel Potty, it folds flat so easily fits into your bag or pram, you put a plastic liner in it for your child to go to the toilet in, and then you simply tie up the bag and throw it away. It holds up to 25kg’s so good for older kids too. No mess or fuss! Potette has also just bought out a new model, Potette Plus, which can also be used as a trainer seat on an adult toilet, great for home or use it at public toilets to keep the germs away from your child!
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When you arrive at your destination, take your child to the toilet. Then ask your child regularly if they need to do a wee. A good idea to take them again before you sit down for morning tea, otherwise the minute your food and drinks arrive will be the time you will need to rush off!
Things to take with you when toilet training
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3 or 4 changes of clothes, including their very special undies, shirts, shorts, a few nappy sacks or bag-it bags for dirty clothes
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A treat to reward if they do a wee or poo in the toilet (eg a sticker or chocolate)
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A Portable Potty - A tip is to set up a clean potty refill bag in the potty after each use so you are ready to go for the next quick emergency.
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Flushable wipes are very handy if there is no toilet paper in public toilets
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A car seat protector which will keep your car seat dry
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Always ensure you have some anti-bacterial wipes for wiping up accidents or wiping down toilet seats, and an anti-bacterial spray
Finally, as hard as it is try not to get upset if there are accidents when you are out, your child is learning something very new. Praise effort and success and ignore accidents as it could crush their confidence and set back their toilet training progress.
General Advice Disclaimer - the tips described above are to be used as a general guide only. It does not take into account your special circumstances. Haggus & Stookles Pty Ltd is not liable for any actions taken from our advice or tips.
