Many parents mistakenly believe that potty training is something that they should just know how to do themselves. The fact is that our modern way of life means that many new parents do not have the depth of experience with babies and small children that our ancestors did. Our only experience with the potty training experience is very likely to have been when we ourselves were taught!

So it’s no wonder that we have no idea when or where or how to begin potty training or what is normal and natural. Further, modern conveniences make delaying potty training a viable alternative. Think about it:

Today’s babies benefit from diapers that keep them much drier and cleaner than anything our ancestors could have imagined.

We have hot water on demand just by turning a tap, so that we can bathe our children every day if we wish in our heated and cooled homes.

Washing machines and dryers mean that even if you choose to cloth diaper, dealing with clean up isn’t that difficult.

We no longer have to put much thought into how to dispose of waste. Bodily waste can be flushed into the sewers and disposable diapers get picked up with our weekly trash.

When you look at it from this perspective, you can see that while using the potty is as natural as breathing, our way of dealing with bodily waste is miles away from what our ancestors experienced. No wonder potty training these days is so difficult!

Our way of life is so different and we don’t live in multiple generation households with older family members around to help and guide us. Keep that in mind the next time you feel bad about not knowing how to potty train your children.

Don’t feel like a failure because you are having a hard time with potty training. Instead be proactive about looking for help and understand that while parent’s instincts are golden, sometimes what is required is a little outside perspective on the situation. Look for potty training tips and coaching from those who have experience and make it easier on yourself and your child.

If you have no idea where to start with potty training you are welcome to visit the Potty Training Power website to get support and advice.