Potty Training: Does Bribery Work?

Potty Training

My bathroom has turned into a carnival. On the door hangs a wall full of treats. There are stickers, cars, and sugar cleverly masquerading as fruit chews. The task at hand is potty training.

The two year old that will be the recipient of these awards is currently holding out on providing number #2 for a prize. We have tried every form of bribery and now we are working on placing him on the potty using a timer.

I can tell you that each child is different which makes pottery training similar to competing for a sports competition. There are rules. There is a lot of exercising, most of patience on the parent’s part, and there is a lot of heavy lifting. You will find yourself bending and twisting as your child decides as soon as they are on the potty that they want off. You will have long conversations about nothing while waiting for one single drop of pee. You might as well know that the bathroom is your new home.

I have set up a basket for myself filled with my favorite book, some stress relief lotion, and an mp3 player. I have told my son that I can await him, outwit him and catch him before he hides and poops in the corner. I am in it to “Win it” because my resolution was no dirty diapers in 2013.

Here is my game plan:

1. Underwear
2. Washer open and ready
3. Clorox wipes available
4. Potty training video
5. Prize wall
6. Timer
7. Mommy Basket in the bathroom
8. My Son’s favorite books and music
9. Ability to stay home for several days in a row
10. Pull ups for at night only
11. Peeing baby doll
12. Big boy Panties
13. Cheerios to aim for
14. Words of praise
15. Patience

What are your potty training tips? Please leave your comments below.

Also, check out my post on Moving from Crib to Bed.

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Topic: Potty Training