In this episode of Oh Crap Potty Training , we’re talking about a question that trips up so many parents: Should you tell your child ahead of time that you’re starting potty training? Some kids need a heads-up, while others will use that time to dig in their heels. And what about when your toddler says, I’ll potty train when I’m three —do you wait? (Spoiler: No.) Plus, we’ll dive into why kids get so attached to diapers and how your language around potty training can make or break the process. L...
Feb 28, 2025•17 min
In this week's episode of Oh Crap Potty Training, I’m diving into something I see over and over with parents—how consistency can make or break your potty training journey (and your parenting in general). We chat about how anything done repeatedly becomes a habit, whether it’s good or bad. So if your kid is peeing on the floor every day, guess what? That’s their new normal. I’m breaking down why we sometimes let these patterns slip, how our toddlers are always watching and learning, and why you n...
Feb 13, 2025•18 min
In this week’s episode of Oh Crap Potty Training, I’m tackling two major potty training pitfalls: potty word salad and empty praise. 🚽✨ If you’ve ever found yourself saying “potty” a million times a day or over-praising every tiny success, this one’s for you. I break down why too much potty talk can actually backfire and make your kid dig in their heels. Plus, we’re talking about why kids don’t need over-the-top cheerleading—what they really need is authentic, meaningful feedback. Tune in for p...
Jan 30, 2025•15 min
In this week’s episode of Oh Crap Potty Training , I’m addressing two of the biggest misconceptions about potty training: that it’s a three-day process and that your toddler will self-initiate right away. Spoiler alert—it’s neither of those things! I’m sharing why modern kids, especially post-pandemic toddlers, often need more time and support to master potty training and why self-initiation usually happens weeks after starting, not days. Plus, I’ll dive into the importance of understanding your...
Jan 09, 2025•12 min
In this episode of Oh Crap Potty Training , I dive into the ins and outs of transitioning your child from a crib to a bed and why it’s essential for successful night training. We’re talking about fostering independence, avoiding common pitfalls like sleep sacks and bedtime bottles, and creating a sleep environment that actually works for both you and your kiddo. I’ll share practical tips, including how light exposure affects circadian rhythms, and tackle those sleep “crutches” that might be hold...
Dec 20, 2024•24 min
In this episode of Oh Crap Potty Training , I’m breaking down the four big reasons why potty training before age three makes life easier for you and your child. From avoiding power struggles during the “three-nager” stage to preventing looming preschool deadlines, I’m sharing why early potty training sets your child up for success. I also dive into how waiting too long can disrupt developmental stages, create unnecessary challenges, and make things harder for everyone. And don’t worry—if your ch...
Dec 05, 2024•17 min
In this week’s episode of Oh Crap Potty Training , I’m talking about something that trips up a lot of parents: staying authentic during potty training. It’s easy to slip into “teacher mode” with a serious voice and extra pressure, but that can put your child on high alert and actually slow down progress. I share how to approach potty training as your real, everyday self—mistakes, messes, and all—so your child feels safe and supported during this big milestone. Remember, potty training isn’t a te...
Nov 21, 2024•10 min
In this week’s episode of Oh Crap Potty Training, I’m focusing on the importance of balancing short-term wins with long-term goals in parenting. We’ll look at why quick fixes, like keeping your child in a crib or using sleep sacks, might feel easier now but can create challenges down the road—like dependency or bedwetting. I also discuss why proactive steps, like early night training and introducing your child to public restrooms, are essential for building long-term confidence and independence...
Nov 07, 2024•18 min
In this week’s episode of Oh Crap Potty Training, we’re tackling the tricky topic of rewards and consequences in potty training—and parenting in general. I explain why rewards can actually lead to more problems, especially with young kids, and how we can shift from a controlling approach to one that supports autonomy and self-mastery. I also share thoughts on natural consequences, why it’s so important to give our kids more responsibility, and how these strategies build confidence in their abili...
Oct 24, 2024•16 min
In this episode, I talk about why using toy timeouts during potty training might not be the best move. Taking away a beloved toy can actually make your child feel unsafe and insecure, which isn’t what we want when we're helping them learn. For kids under six, immediate and relevant consequences work best, as they can’t always grasp delayed actions. I also share why nurturing your child’s learning process through connection and curiosity is far more effective than using external rewards or punish...
Oct 08, 2024•16 min
We're diving into the world of poop. Yup, we’re talking about everything from funky colors to strange textures and how teething, hydration, and fiber all play a role in your kid’s digestion. I also share my go-to resource, the Bristol Stool Chart, to help you track your child’s digestive health. If you’re dealing with poop problems (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this episode is packed with practical tips to make sure your little one’s gut is in tip-top shape. Tune in to learn more! (00:00:0...
Sep 24, 2024•14 min
In this episode, I get into the real deal about learning and how it applies to potty training. Spoiler: you’re not teaching your child how to pee or poop—they already know how to do that! What we’re really teaching is where to put it. I cover why consistency, repetition, and commitment are the keys to success in potty training and why taking shortcuts or expecting quick results can backfire. I also dive into the frustrations that come up when things aren’t going as planned and how to know if it’...
Sep 10, 2024•21 min
I shared this episode on Oh Crap Parenting last week but because I think it's so important I couldn’t go without sharing it here on Oh Crap Potty Training too. I address what might be the most important topic we’ve covered to date: the impact of parental exhaustion and the crucial need for connection with our kids. Lately, I’ve been seeing more and more behavioral issues—meltdowns, out-of-control behavior, even potty training setbacks—and I believe it all boils down to a lack of connection and t...
Aug 27, 2024•43 min
In this episode, I dive into some of the pitfalls parents often encounter when potty training, especially when they follow advice from sources that might not be as credible as they seem. I talk about why relying solely on your pediatrician for potty training guidance might not be the best move—they simply don’t have the time or specialization needed to tackle this milestone effectively. I also address the issue of pseudonym authors in the potty training world, stressing the importance of checkin...
Aug 13, 2024•19 min
Today, I'm talking about when potty training just isn't going well. Ever feel like you're at your wit's end and everything's chaotic? That's when it's time for a Potty Training Reset. I'll explain how to start fresh without sending the wrong message to your kiddo. We’ll talk about the sweet spot for starting potty training, ideally between 20 to 30 months, and why waiting until the last minute isn't the best plan. Plus, I’m breaking down the nitty-gritty of night and nap diaper training—yes, it’...
Jul 30, 2024•15 min
I'm tackling the big one: expectations versus reality in potty training. Let's get real, folks—unrealistic expectations can mess with your head and make the whole process way more stressful than it needs to be. We’ll talk about how to manage those expectations, stay flexible, and keep an open mind. Every kid learns at their own pace, and they’re going to hit bumps along the way. I’ll share some tips on staying emotionally sober—yes, we need that in parenting too! Think of potty training like lea...
Jul 16, 2024•15 min
Hey, hey, you guys! Today, I dive into the concept of the inner 'f it,' where kids might show aggressive behavior due to being sick of the process. It's crucial to recognize when your child is struggling and to provide the right support without overwhelming them with excessive praise or criticism. Acknowledging small wins authentically helps foster self-esteem and confidence. I also emphasize the importance of parenting approaches that avoid burdening children with parental emotions, activating ...
Jul 02, 2024•23 min
I'm diving into the nitty-gritty of summer potty training. Summer is a fantastic time to potty train—less clothing, more time at home—but it comes with its own set of challenges. We'll talk about how travel plans and those beloved pool and beach days can throw a wrench in your potty training progress. I'll be sharing why swim diapers can be a major setback and why it's crucial to manage your little one's fluid intake to avoid those pesky electrolyte imbalances. We’ll also cover why fruits like w...
Jun 18, 2024•20 min
Hey, hey! In this episode, I’m diving into the hot topic of poop withholding, again. Poop withholding isn’t about your kid not being "ready"—it's a muscular reaction to anxiety. To help, I’ve launched a Poop Withholding Course with HD videos, workbooks, and a supportive community. Understanding this issue early is crucial, as it ranges from mild to severe anxiety-driven behaviors. Plus, night and nap diapers can complicate things, as kids might hold it in until they're in a diaper again. Also yo...
Jun 04, 2024•24 min
Get ready for summer with me in this special episode as we revisit all the essential strategies for transitioning smoothly into the sunny season with your little ones, originally aired on Episode 132 of the Oh Crap! Parenting podcast. From tackling endless snacking dilemmas with protein-packed snack ideas to keeping boredom at bay with creative activities like marble runs and fort building, I've got you covered. Learn how to support your child through dysregulation and overwhelming environments ...
May 14, 2024•50 min
First off: listen till the end. There's lots of great info towards the end. Today, we are entering the world of magnesium with Dr. Barb Woegerer! Dr. Barb Woegerer, a naturopathic doctor based in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, specializes in women's health, stress management, and inflammatory conditions, with a key emphasis on the role of magnesium in overall health and wellness, especially in treating constipation. Together, we explore the different types of magnesium and their unique benefits. From...
Apr 30, 2024•39 min
Today, we're talking limit testing behavior in potty training. Kids often push boundaries by purposefully having accidents or making inappropriate statements to gauge parental reactions. I stress the significance of setting firm boundaries and remaining consistent in enforcing them, likening it to putting a fence around a yard for safety. It's essential to differentiate between behavior-driven accidents and physical issues like constipation, addressing underlying issues effectively. We explore t...
Apr 16, 2024•14 min
I'm coming at you with a little bit of tough love, today. We're talking behavioral issues that often get mistaken for potty training challenges. From playing in poop to uncontrollable diarrhea and refusal to wear clothes, these issues can be more than just about using the potty. I dive into each scenario, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying behavioral and parenting dynamics. Join me as we unravel the complexities and find practical solutions to support both children and parents ...
Apr 02, 2024•12 min
Transitioning back to daycare or preschool after spring break can be daunting, but fear not! In this episode, we dive into strategies to navigate this tricky phase. From understanding daycare bathroom setups to fostering open communication with providers, I've got you covered. Join me as we tackle the ins and outs of potty training during this transitional period and set your child up for success! (00:00:02) Transitioning Back to Daycare Potty Training (00:00:38) Potty Training at Daycare (00:07...
Mar 19, 2024•13 min
In this episode of Oh Crap! Potty Training, we delve into the challenges of setting boundaries while navigating children's preferences, especially when dealing with kids who will only use a particular potty. From setting boundaries to navigating parental preferences, I delve into strategies for guiding children's behavior and fostering independence during the potty training journey. We explore how to support children through outings and using different restrooms while maintaining patience and co...
Mar 05, 2024•24 min
I'm covering the key strategies and pitfalls of guiding your child through the potty training journey. From crowdsourcing potty training advice to prompting techniques and dealing with helicopter parenting, we discuss it all. I emphasize the importance of sticking to a solid plan tailored to your child's needs, steering clear of social media until well into the process to avoid conflicting advice overload. We explore the power of using statements, choices, and challenges during training, steerin...
Feb 20, 2024•23 min
Today, I'm diving deep into techniques and advice for tackling the common challenge of pee withholding with your little one. From understanding the levels of withholding to practical release tricks like blowing raspberries or singing, we explore strategies to make the potty a more comfortable place for your child. I also address the importance of knowing when it's time to seek professional help for extreme withholding. With patience, consistency, and understanding, we can help our children navig...
Feb 06, 2024•21 min
Erica's Website: https://www.centerforconfidentparenting.org/ Hey! Today, we dove into the essential topic of establishing solid sleep routines for our little ones. Joined by the insightful Erica Desper, we talked all things consistency, understanding your child's unique temperament, figuring out the right bedtime, and how light and activity impact sleep schedules. You know how vital consistency is, especially with hectic schedules, and we shared tips on maintaining that routine. We discussed un...
Jan 23, 2024•59 min
Today we're tackling two major fronts yet again! Night Training and Daycare! I spill the beans on how being a nighttime support for your kiddo isn't about creating dependency but providing the right assistance. Plus, we're deep-diving into the daycare scene – why you may want to jump in and help correct misunderstandings if you can. Jamie's Website Jamie's Courses Jamie's Instagram Jamie's Patreon Oh Crap! Potty Training Oh Crap! I Have a Toddler...
Jan 09, 2024•8 min
Today, we're talking about when the right time is to use a diaper during the potty training journey. With the holidays coming up, there's a lot of events to navigate. Learn the art of balancing life events with consistency, teaching autonomy to foster independence, and addressing concerns without jumping to conclusions. Let's go!
Dec 14, 2023•14 min
