Toilet Training 101: A Gentle Guide for Parents and Toddlers
on August 25, 2025

Toilet Training 101: A Gentle Guide for Parents and Toddlers

"I never thought I’d cheer so hard for a pee in a potty—but here we are. If you’re in the thick of toddlerhood, you know the potty struggle is real. But it’s also real love, real effort, and real progress."


Toilet training is one of the biggest milestones in a toddler’s journey—and, let’s be honest, in a parent’s journey too. There’s pride, progress, and the occasional puddle on the floor. But with the right timing, tools, and a lot of patience, it doesn’t have to be a power struggle. In fact, it can be a beautiful bonding experience.

Let’s walk you through when to begin, how to ease your child into it, and what you’ll need to make the transition smoother—including toddler-friendly toilet chairs that help toddlers understand the whole potty process.


When Is the Right Time to Start Toilet Training?

Every child is different, but most toddlers show signs of toilet readiness between 18 and 30 months. Look for these cues: 

  • Your child stays dry for 2+ hours
  • They show discomfort in a soiled diaper
  • They can pull their pants up and down
  • They’re curious about your bathroom routine
  • They express interest in the toilet or potty chair 

Remember: timing is everything. Starting too early can lead to frustration. Wait for signs of readiness rather than sticking to a fixed age.

Toilet Chairs vs. Toilet Seats: What Works Best? 

New - Choosing between a toilet chair and a toilet seat insert really comes down to your toddler’s comfort and readiness. Toilet chairs offer a grounded, child-sized option that feels less intimidating—perfect for the early stages of potty training. At The Tickle Toe, we designed ours to double up as a regular chair with a flat lid—because toddlers don’t like anything that feels just like a chore.

Why We Made This: As parents ourselves, we created what we wanted in our own homes—safe, practical products that adapt to daily life. Our founder’s own daughter was one of the first to test both our potty chair and seat insert, helping us get the design just right. Once your child is ready for the next step, our bright, easy-to-clean seat insert helps make the transition to the big toilet smooth and stress-free.

Real Tips from Real Parents

  • "I kept a basket of books and toys near the potty to keep my son entertained. It turned potty time into storytime."
  • "My daughter picked out her potty seat, and it made a huge difference. She felt in control."
  • "We used a sticker chart to celebrate each try, not just the wins. It made her feel proud." - Bonus DIY: Download our Potty Progress Chart to track small wins. Print it, color it, and celebrate every milestone together!

What worked for you? Share your tips in the comments below. We’d love to include your advice in our next post!

Potty-Perfect Books to Read Together

Books can do wonders when introducing a new concept like toilet training. Here are a few toddler-approved reads that normalize potty use and spark giggles along the way:

  1. "Potty" by Leslie Patricelli
    A short, simple, and silly book perfect for beginners.
  2. "P is for Potty!" (Sesame Street)
    Features Elmo and a sturdy lift-the-flap format toddlers love.
  3. "Everyone Poops" by Taro Gomi
    A gentle reminder that this is a natural part of life—for everyone!
  4. "Where’s the Poop?" by Julie Markes
    A fun, interactive book that introduces bathroom routines.

Pairing these with your potty training routine helps your child visualize and connect emotionally with the process.

Making Potty Time a Routine

  • Create a schedule: Take your child to the potty first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime.
  • Celebrate small wins: Use claps, stickers, or a happy dance - not candy!
  • Avoid pressure: Accidents are normal. Stay calm and patient.
  • Keep it accessible: Place the toilet chair in the bathroom or nursery so they can reach it easily.

Final Thought: You’re Not Alone

Toilet training can be tough, messy, and confusing—but it's also filled with laughter, high-fives, and tiny triumphs. We’re building a community here at The Tickle Toe: by parents, for parents, of parents. You’re never alone on this journey.

Let’s Stay Connected

[Shop Toilet Training Products] — Explore potty chairs and seat inserts designed with you in mind
[Join Our Parenting Circle] — Share your tips, ask your questions, and celebrate your milestones
[Download Free DIY Potty Time Chart]

Use #TickleToeMilestones to be featured in our community gallery of proud parents and potty champions!