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Potty Training Praise


By Elizabeth Pantley
From The No-Cry Potty Training Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley

When your child is learning to use the potty should you give lots of applause and praise, or simple, matter-of-fact acceptance? Which is the right response for potty-training success? If you research this seemingly simple question you'll get adamant advice on both ends of the spectrum. Some experts say you should give lots and lots of positive feedback, including a party-like atmosphere - with noisemakers, cake and party hats. Others say you should avoid getting overly excited or emotional and simply acknowledge that he's done well.

The right answer is that the right answer is different for every parent and child pair. Some parents are naturally more enthusiastic about everything their child does whether it's taking the first step, building a block tower or tinkling in the potty. Other parents tend to be more reserved.

Children need different things from their parents, too. Some children thrive on their parent's energy and will do anything for a round of applause, other children are easily overwhelmed and prefer more subtle praise. Even two different children in the same family will respond better to different levels of enthusiasm.

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Probably the best advice is to do what comes naturally and what seems to encourage your child to keep trying. What's most important is that you want your child to know that you support him, and that you are proud of his efforts along the way, as well as his successes.

A reminder to be patient

This whole potty-training process takes time. You probably won't feel confident to completely turn over your child's toileting to him for many months. So, relax, be patient, and enjoy the journey. Children are only little for a very short time - it's nice to enjoy and embrace every moment.

Excerpted with permission by McGraw-Hill Publishing from The No-Cry Potty Training Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley http://www.pantley.com/elizabeth

© Elizabeth Pantley, 1996-present
Elizabeth Pantley is a author and parent educator and frequently quoted expert who presents lectures across the United States. She is the mother of four children. Check out her website at www.pantley.com! Her newsletter, "In Touch With Elizabeth Pantley," provices valuable parenting tidbits and advice, plus advance notice of book releases and appearances. Sign up at her site!
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