Grandma raising Grandson

I thought I had left potty training far behind when my kids were grown, but life had other plans. Starting over in my 50s with my grandson meant I got to relive all the ups and downs including the long days (and nights) of potty training.

Honestly? It wasn’t easy. Potty training is hard enough the first time around, but doing it all over again years later came with new challenges. The patience it takes, the messes you clean up, and the tears (sometimes theirs, sometimes yours) can really wear you down.

But here’s what I learned, and what might help if you’re in the thick of it too:

💡 Potty Training Tips That Actually Helped

Wait Until They’re Ready Forcing it too soon only frustrated both of us. Once he showed signs like staying dry longer, hiding to poop, or being curious about the bathroom things went smoother. Keep It Positive Accidents happen, and getting upset only made him anxious. I tried to celebrate every success, no matter how small. Stickers, high-fives, and even a silly little dance worked wonders. Routine, Routine, Routine, Taking him to the potty at regular times (after meals, before bed, first thing in the morning) helped build the habit. Make It Fun A little potty seat with characters he loved made a big difference. Some kids like a step stool or even a book basket near the potty so it feels less like a chore. Expect Setbacks Even when I thought we were “done,” there were accidents. I reminded myself (and him) that it was normal and part of learning. Give Yourself Grace Potty training takes patience, and some days I felt like giving up. But I reminded myself it wouldn’t last forever. And it didn’t he got there in his own time.

Now that we’re on the other side of it, I can look back and laugh at some of the moments that seemed so overwhelming at the time. If you’re going through it right now, hang in there. You and your little one will get through it and one day, you’ll be telling the story too.