Parent tip
Start before you overthink it. No-prep activities work best when you begin while the moment is still recoverable.
Potty Time Story Book
Read a potty-themed story together, then sit on the potty with no pressure — building familiarity through books.
Activity details
Instructions
- Choose a potty-themed picture book your toddler enjoys
- Bring it to the bathroom and sit on the floor together
- Read the story at a relaxed pace — no rushing
- After the story, casually ask: 'Do you want to sit on the potty like [character]?'
- If they say yes, let them sit (clothed is fine) while you read another page
- If they say no, say 'Maybe next time!' and move on cheerfully
- Repeat daily at the same time to build a gentle routine
What success looks like
A few quiet minutes together without pressure. If your child relaxes even slightly, that’s self-regulation building.
Choose a short potty-themed picture book and read it together in the bathroom. After the story, invite your toddler to sit on the potty — clothed or not, lid up or down, whatever feels comfortable. The goal is zero pressure. You're not waiting for anything to happen; you're just making the potty a normal, comfortable place to sit while enjoying a story. Over days and weeks, the potty becomes associated with cosy reading time rather than performance anxiety.
Why it helps
The NHS recommends a relaxed, child-led approach to potty training, noting that most children show signs of readiness between 18 months and 3 years. Pairing the potty with a beloved activity — reading — creates a positive association through classical conditioning. The absence of pressure is critical: research shows that potty training resistance increases when children feel performance anxiety. By removing expectations and focusing on the story, you allow your toddler to build comfort with the potty at their own pace.
Variations
- Let your toddler choose which book to bring to the bathroom each time.
- Read non-potty books on the potty too — the goal is comfort, not theme.
- Bring a favourite toy to sit on its own 'potty' (a small box) alongside your toddler.
Safety tips
- Ensure the potty is stable and won't tip when your toddler sits down.
- Never force your toddler to sit — resistance today doesn't mean resistance tomorrow.
- Keep the bathroom warm and comfortable, especially if your toddler is trying without clothes.
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