By: Holly Osborn, MOTR/L, BCP, Incontinence Program Coordinator with Beyond Boundaries Therapy & Wellness in Fargo, North Dakota
Why Potty Training Feels So Hard
Potty training is a major milestone for all children. It can also be one of the most challenging.
As parents, we are excited. We finally get to ditch the diapers. But that excitement can quickly turn into overwhelm and frustration.
Potty training is no joke and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Many kids rely on their own timeline. That timeline does not always match the “best method” we read about online or in parenting books. There is no magic age for potty training. However, many children are developmentally ready to begin learning around 22 months.
What Is Easy Peasy Potty?
Easy Peasy Potty supports parents who are thinking about, starting, or already in the thick of potty training. Skilled Occupational Therapists, with additional training in pediatric pelvic health and incontinence, help provide tips, tricks, and even direct therapy intervention to families and kids tackling this milestone.
Occupational Therapists help children and families with more than just sitting on the toilet. We focus on the foundational skills that may be creating roadblocks along the way.
Common Potty Training Roadblocks
Sensory Processing:
- Does your child cover their ears when the toilet flushes?
- Do they worry about how cold or high the seat is?
- Do they get worried about water splashing them? Are they aversive to the feeling of being soiled?
Behavioral Challenges:
- When you mention the potty is there big pushback?
- Do they hide or run away from the toilet?
- Do they have trouble tolerating diaper changes?
Motor Skills:
- Does your child have difficulty dressing themselves?
- Can they climb up onto the toilet?
- When they are sitting on the toilet are they moving excessively or trying to keep from falling in?
Easy Peasy Potty Program Options
Easy Peasy Potty can begin with a formal evaluation by one of our Occupational Therapists. This helps determine whether sensory, motor, or behavioral skills are contributing to potty training challenges.
We bill insurance whenever possible, and families are responsible only for what insurance does not cover, along with a $100 program fee.
This program also allows families access to their therapist during “off” hours for questions that come up at home. Children complete potty training at Beyond Boundaries Therapy & Wellness using a structured, therapist-guided approach.
If you are looking for an out-of-pocket option, we are also happy to complete a consultation for tips and tricks to get you started. We can also create a plan that families carry out at home with caregiver support. This plan allows access to the therapist on “off” hours to assist with any questions that come up.
Potty training comes with both excitement and frustration. Ups and downs are normal, and regression can happen.
Having a solid plan and consistent support makes a big difference. Taking care of your own mental health matters too.
If your child continues to struggle despite your best efforts, we would love to support your family.
Please reach out to Beyond Boundaries today with any inquiries, questions or interest in starting Easy Peasy Potty. Our team is here to help! Families in Fargo, West Fargo, and surrounding communities can access support through our Easy Peasy Potty program.