Potty Time

Potty training has officially started in our home. We are taking it slow and letting Ava take the lead. We don't want to push her into it, but at the same time we don't want to delay it either. We started by getting the "Elmo's Potty Time" DVD. It is pretty cheesy, but it helped introduce the idea of using the potty.

We also found a treat that Ava is excited to use the potty for, chocolate fish crackers. At first we gave her some crackers for just sitting on the potty. We were proud of her for just trying and not being afraid. Once Ava made this connection she wanted to use the potty all the time. We have now started giving Ava 2 fish crackers for "trying" to use the potty and more if she actually uses the potty.

So far Ava has done well. She has told us several times that she needed to go and actually went. She still usually goes in her diaper, but she is starting to make the connection and we are excited about that. When ever she goes in the potty we make a big deal about it and she is so proud of herself. It is cute to see the big smile on her face and her excitement (mostly about fish crackers). We are also making a big deal about washing her hands which she really enjoys.

We know this is just the beginning and this will be a long learning experience. We know it is going to be a roller coaster ride and will become more challenging as we move away from diapers. For the moment we are trying to be as supportive and encouraging as we can without overwhelming her. We are proud of our big 2 year old girl.