Potty Training Tips for Sensitive Kids (From a mom who gets it)
If you’re parenting a sensitive child, the idea of potty training might feel completely overwhelming - for both of you. The fear of pushing too hard, the worry about big emotions, and the desire to get it right can feel like a lot.
The good news? You’re not alone - and potty training a sensitive child can be done gently and successfully with the right approach. I know this because I’ve done it with my own sensitive toddler, and I’m sharing the exact tips that made a big difference for us.
🧠 1. Give Them Time to Prep
This is the number one tip I give parents of sensitive kids: start with preparation, not pressure. Before you even ask them to sit on the potty, start laying the foundation.
That might look like:
Reading potty-themed books together
Watching short, kid-friendly potty videos
Talking about what our body feels like when we need to pee or poop
Letting them explore the potty chair on their own terms
For a sensitive child, feeling prepared and knowing what to expect makes everything feel a little less scary. When you slow down and give them space to learn before expecting action, you're giving them the gift of confidence and predictability. If you want more strategies on how to introduce the potty process with a gentle and child led approach, check out my Readiness Guide for Potty Training.
💬 2. Offer Gentle Support and Reassurance
Sensitive kids often feel big emotions and they pick up on your energy too. That’s why your tone, body language, and responses matter just as much as the words you use.
When your child starts to show hesitation, try not to express frustration or disappointment. Instead, acknowledge their feelings and validate the challenge:
“Learning new things can feel scary, but you can do hard things.”
“It’s okay to feel nervous. What can we do to make it less scary?”
“You’re doing something new and that’s really brave.”
Let them know that they’re safe, supported, and capable - even when it’s hard.
🧸 3. Use Comfort Items to Make them Feel Safe
If your child has a favorite lovey, blanket, or stuffed animal, bring it into the potty training process! You can use it during:
Role play (have the stuffed animal use the potty)
Storytelling (make up a potty-themed story featuring their lovey)
Real-time support (let them hold their comfort item while sitting on the potty)
This small act can make the whole process feel much more secure and familiar.
💡 Final Thoughts
Potty training a sensitive kid doesn’t have to be stressful. When you meet them where they are - with patience, empathy, and preparation - you’re creating a calm and connected path forward.
You know your child best. Trust your gut, lead with kindness, and know that success isn’t about speed, it’s about creating a positive experience for both you and your child.
You’ve got this 💛 And if you decide you need additional support, reach out to me here: Potty Training Consulting Intake Form