Potty training is a major milestone for toddlers—and for parents, it can bring a mix of pride, stress, and plenty of questions. One of the most effective and enjoyable ways to tackle this stage is by turning to the best potty training books. These books feature fun stories, relatable characters, and simple lessons that help toddlers feel more confident and excited about using the potty. Plus, they offer a great opportunity for parents and kids to connect through shared reading.
In this blog post, we’ve rounded up the best potty training books recommended by parents. Packed with helpful tips, playful illustrations, and gentle guidance, these picks are here to support your family through every step of the potty training journey.
Why Potty Training Books Are So Effective
Potty training books can be an excellent resource in supporting toddlers during this new and sometimes challenging phase. Here’s why they work so well:
- Building Confidence & Reducing Fear: Many children feel anxious or hesitant when it comes to using the potty for the first time. The idea of sitting on a toilet, especially if they’ve only known diapers, can feel overwhelming. Potty training books help normalize this new experience by featuring characters they can relate to. These characters go through the same struggles and triumphs, which reassures toddlers that they are not alone in their journey.
- Creating a Routine: Routine is essential in potty training. One of the key strategies for success is consistency, and potty training books can help toddlers understand and adapt to a regular potty schedule. Reading a potty book at the same time each day, whether in the morning or before bed, helps toddlers become familiar with the concept of potty time. The repetition and predictability of the stories provide a comforting routine for young children.
- Engagement Through Fun Stories: Young children are naturally drawn to books with bright colors, engaging illustrations, and interactive stories. Potty training books often use playful characters, catchy rhymes, and humor to capture toddlers’ attention and keep them entertained. These elements not only make the learning process more enjoyable but also help children retain important lessons.
Recommended Potty Training Books
Here are 10 of the best potty training books that parents recommend for making the potty training process both fun and educational:
1. Everyone Poops by Taro Gomi
A classic, Everyone Poops explains the natural process of going to the bathroom in a simple and relatable way. It teaches children that everyone, even adults, has to go potty—taking the pressure off them.
- Why Parents Love It: It’s funny, non-threatening, and helps kids understand that using the potty is just part of life.
- Age Range: 2-5 years
2.Potty by Leslie Patricelli
This short and sweet book follows a toddler who’s learning to use the potty. With its simple language and playful illustrations, this book encourages toddlers to try using the potty with a positive attitude.
- Why Parents Love It: It’s perfect for younger toddlers who are just beginning to learn about potty training.
- Age Range: 18 months-3 years
3.The Potty Train by David Hochman and Ruth Kennison
This book offers a fun, rhyming story about a toddler on the potty training journey. It features a whimsical train ride to the potty, helping kids see potty training as an adventure.
- Why Parents Love It: Its fun, sing-song rhythm and relatable characters make it a hit with little ones.
- Age Range: 2-4 years
4.The Pigeon Needs a Bath! (Potty Train Pigeon) by Mo Willems
From the beloved Mo Willems, this book follows the pigeon who is trying to avoid taking a bath but ends up discovering the joys of cleanliness.
- Why Parents Love It: It’s funny, engaging, and an easy read for both kids and parents.
- Age Range: 3-5 years
5.Big Girl Panties by Fran Manushkin
This empowering book helps girls feel excited and confident about using the potty and transitioning to “big girl” panties. It encourages toddlers to feel proud of their growing independence.
- Why Parents Love It: It promotes self-confidence and makes the potty training process feel like a rite of passage.
- Age Range: 2-4 years
6.I Want My Potty by Tony Ross
This book follows a little girl named Princess who is reluctant to use the potty. It teaches children the importance of making the choice to use the potty themselves.
- Why Parents Love It: It resonates with toddlers who are more stubborn and reluctant about potty training.
- Age Range: 3-5 years
7.Diapers Are Not Forever by Elizabeth Verdick
This gentle approach to potty training is ideal for toddlers who are ready to start saying goodbye to diapers. The simple, positive message helps kids look forward to using the potty.
- Why Parents Love It: The kind tone reassures toddlers and parents alike that this milestone is a natural and exciting next step.
- Age Range: 2-3 years
8.The Potty Book for Boys by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
This book specifically caters to boys and helps them get excited about becoming “big boys” who use the potty. It emphasizes fun, independence, and confidence.
- Why Parents Love It: It’s perfect for boys, making potty training feel like an important and exciting step.
- Age Range: 2-4 years
9.The Potty Book for Girls by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
A companion to the boys’ version, this book empowers little girls to make the transition to potty training with confidence. The cheerful story and positive reinforcement make it a favorite.
- Why Parents Love It: Parents appreciate the encouragement and pride it inspires in their daughters.
- Age Range: 2-4 years
10.Poo in the Zoo by Steve Smallman
This humorous book introduces animal characters who demonstrate how different animals go to the bathroom. It’s a fun, silly way to teach potty training and create a light-hearted atmosphere.
- Why Parents Love It: The humor and animal characters engage toddlers and make potty training fun.
- Age Range: 2-4 years
Tips on How to Make Potty Training a Fun Experience
Potty training can be a fun and positive experience for both parents and toddlers when approached creatively. Here are some simple tips to make the process enjoyable:
1. Turn Potty Training into a Game
Make potty training fun by turning it into a game. Use songs, races, or challenges like matching games with potty books to keep your child entertained while learning.
2. Celebrate with Praise and Rewards
Reward your child after each success with praise, stickers, or extra playtime. Positive reinforcement helps motivate them and makes the experience exciting.
3. Use a Potty Chart
Create a potty chart with stickers to track progress. Kids love visual reminders, and reaching milestones can make them feel accomplished.
4. Read Fun Potty Training Books
Use potty training books with fun characters and relatable stories to make the process more enjoyable. Reading together reinforces the steps and creates bonding time.
5. Let Your Child Be Involved
Let your child pick out their potty supplies and be part of the process, like helping flush or wash hands. This gives them a sense of independence.
6. Stay Positive
Maintain a calm and encouraging attitude. Praise efforts, even after accidents, and keep the experience light and stress-free.
7. Use Interactive Tools
Interactive toys like potty dolls or playsets can make learning fun. Demonstrate potty time with a doll to make it less intimidating.
8. Establish a Routine
Create a regular potty schedule, reading books or playing games each time. Consistency helps reinforce the habit and makes it easier for your child.
9. Lead by Example
If comfortable, show your child that everyone uses the potty. This can help normalize the process and reduce any fear or hesitation.
10. Keep It Lighthearted
If your child is feeling overwhelmed, take a break. Play a fun game or go outside. Keeping things light will help them stay engaged without pressure.
With these tips, potty training can be a fun and rewarding experience for your child. Celebrate each small victory and keep the mood positive for long-term success.
Begin Potty Training with your Toddler
Potty training doesn’t have to be a stressful or daunting process. With the right tools—like fun and engaging potty training books—it can be an enjoyable milestone for both parents and toddlers. Whether you choose a classic like Everyone Poops or an interactive story like The Pigeon Needs a Bath!, these books can help your child feel confident and excited to embrace the potty training journey.Ready to begin potty training with your toddler? Pick a few of these highly recommended books and start building a positive, fun experience today. Share your stories with us—what worked best for your child? If you’re looking for more parenting tips and resources, Baby Steps Daycare has plenty of helpful content to support you through every parenting stage.
