Minion is almost 2 now and has taken a rather eager, early interest in potty training. I take zero credit for any of it – in fact, I've been trying for awhile now to slow his roll on this whole toilet thing. I think it's because he's so enamored with his brothers, he just wants to do whatever they do. Even if that means clambering up onto a giant ceramic throne that he doesn't totally comprehend.
What to Know about Potty Training with Siblings
We brought out a little potty for him and started leading him to it when he's pulling at his diaper or acting like he has to go. Potty training before a kid is saying many words is proving to be an interesting experience, but I'm kind of shocked at how smoothly it's going with the help of his brothers.
Here's how we're getting his older siblings (especially the recently-potty-trained 3-year-old) in on the action.
Demonstration
We've made it clear to the big boys that the little potty is just for Minion, now. They still get a kick out of hopping on and off of it, though, showing him how he's supposed to do it.
Reading and entertainment
One of the hardest parts about potty training is getting the kids to actually sit there for extended periods of time. The big boys like to read potty books and bring him toys to keep him occupied.
Make it easy for kids to change the roll
I mounted a hanging file box to the wall (this one's Nate Berkus from Target, fancypants!) and filled it with spare toilet paper rolls. It serves as a front-and-center visual reminder for the big boys to change the roll when we run out. We get those big Mega Rolls that hold 4 rolls in 1 so it's not something the boys have to do often, but it's something I want them to get in the habit of. Life skills, yo. It's high enough that Minion can't reach, and the big boys have a cute stool to step on up to it.
Rewards are as important as ever for potty training with siblings
I'm not above bribery. Lollipops were the big motivator for Some Boy, and Sidekick was all about M&Ms. Minion's big on stickers, and I make sure that the whole gang gets their own any time we're having a successful potty moment.
Underwear excitement
We're not quite to the underwear point with the littlest yet, but the big boys LOVE to show him their special character undies. Their excitement is infectious, and I know he's now working for the day when he can wear big boy undies, too. Just one more motivator to throw in the mix!
For more potty training help, check out our post dedicated to potty training without pleading, the things nobody tells you about potty training, nighttime routines and bedwetting while traveling.
Do you have any special tips for potty training with siblings?