Share your top tips with Penwizard on encouraging your children with their potty training for your chance to win a £300 Love2Shop voucher! NOW CLOSED

[KathrynMumsnet]

The team at Penwizard have asked us to find out your top tips to encourage your children with their potty training.

Here’s what Penwizard say: "We all know potty training can be a tough time for both toddlers and parents. That’s why in our new personalised potty training book we guide children step-by-step through the process to help them understand what’s involved and help parents motivate their child. But we want to hear from Mumsnet posters what tips and tricks have worked for them whilst handling this delicate process and any advice they would pass on to first time mothers”.

So what are your top tips? What do you wish you’d known about potty training before starting the process? Do you have a reward system in place? Whatever it is, we’d love to hear it!

Everyone who posts their comment on this thread will be entered into a prize draw where one lucky Mumsnetter will win a £300 Love2Shop voucher.

Please note: your comments may be used anonymously elsewhere on Mumsnet and by Penwizard on their website, marketing materials and possible elsewhere, so please only comment if you are happy with this.

Thanks and good luck!

MNHQ

p.s. if you would like to find out more about Penwizard’s new book click here.

Don't be in a hurry to start (or feel pressured by other people whose children seem way ahead of yours) - it may be possible when they're very young, but it'll be easier when they're older and ready.

Chocolate buttons were our go to reward, but it was surprising how soon she forgot that was an option. First day at nursery (having done 3 days at home) was a nightmare because there weren't potties, just mini-toilets. Easily solved by taking her potty in - should've thought of that in the first place!

And don't worry if they're not dry at night for aaaaaaages - perfectly normal.

Most important tip is wait until they are ready. There's no rush, although it can feel awkward if friends and family make comments.

Sticker charts or similar rewads work well. Also having plastic sheeting down on carpets.

Don't expect them to be dry at night soon after in the daytime, that can take a lot longer.

Use a star chart - a star per wee or poo, so many stars add up to get a comic, or a book as a reward.

Buy some fun scented handwash to use afterwards.

My top tip would be to follow your child, if they are struggling stop and wait a while before trying again. Too much pressure (on both of you! ) will cause stress and anxiety.