Episodes
⁠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...
Published 11/07/24
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...
Published 10/24/24
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...
Published 10/08/24
⁠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...
Published 09/24/24
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...
Published 09/10/24
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...
Published 08/27/24
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...
Published 08/13/24
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,...
Published 07/30/24
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...
Published 07/16/24
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,...
Published 07/02/24
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...
Published 06/18/24
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...
Published 06/04/24
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...
Published 05/14/24
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....
Published 04/30/24
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...
Published 04/16/24
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...
Published 04/02/24
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...
Published 03/19/24
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...
Published 03/05/24
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,...
Published 02/20/24
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...
Published 02/06/24
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...
Published 01/23/24
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
Published 01/09/24
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!
Published 12/14/23
All right! In this episode of The Oh Crap! Potty Training Podcast, we are diving deep into a topic close to my heart – Special Circumstances in potty training. We're talking about tailoring the potty training game plan for your kiddos. From assessing mobility to understanding cognitive abilities, I'll guide you through customizing your approach. I also share my exception to the "no rewards in potty training" rule. Give it a listen, as we explore the specifics for potty training with special...
Published 11/29/23