Frequently Asked Questions

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At Potty Partners, we believe the most important readiness factor is adult leadership, not waiting for a child to show signs on their own. If your child can walk, they are ready to begin building awareness and participating in toileting routines. Readiness isn't about mastery—it's about giving children the opportunity to learn. Our approach helps adults create the right environment, expectations, and support system so children can develop independence from the start. 

 You're not alone...no one handed out a manual for this (until now!). Many families feel stuck because they’re guessing their way through it. Potty Partners gives you a clear, step-by-step plan based on real child development and years of hands-on experience. I’ll help you reset with confidence, ditch the guilt - and the diapers, and move forward with practical tools that actually work. You'll know what to do, when to do it, and how to support your child every step of the way. 

 In my classroom and in-home work with families, about 85% of children using the Potty Partners method are confidently using the toilet within two weeks. That doesn't mean perfection—but it does mean real progress, fewer accidents, and a clear path forward. This method works because it sets children up for success with consistent routines, supportive adult guidance, and an environment designed for learning. Every plan I create is tailored to your child and your household, so you're never left wondering what to try next. 

 Yes—I’ve supported many children with a wide range of developmental and learning needs, making up about 10–15% of the families I’ve worked with. The Potty Partners method is flexible and respectful, with built-in scaffolding to help each child build awareness at their own pace. For children who need more time developing interoception (the ability to recognize internal body signals), we may spend longer preparing before ditching diapers—but the end goal is still full independence. With patience, clear routines, and the right supports in place, toilet learning is possible for every child. 

For most children, earlier is better. Once a child is walking, they’re ready to start building the foundations of toilet learning. I recommend families begin preparing around 12–18 months, with our first meeting happening anytime after 12 months. From there, you can decide when you’re ready to begin the active training phase. Many families choose to start during a school break or a quieter stretch at home—times when caregivers can devote a few focused days to leading the transition with confidence.
If your child is older, don’t worry—now is the next best time to start. This process meets your family where you are, and it’s never too late to move forward with the right support. 

Potty Partners is designed to support the whole family, not just the child. I provide clear, concrete steps so you’re never guessing, along with nonjudgmental feedback tailored to your unique situation. My approach is rooted in child development, but equally focused on empowering caregivers with practical tools and emotional support. Potty training is one of the most stressful stages of early childhood—second only to colic for many families—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. This method offers structure, relief, and confidence when you need it most. 

Yes—and you’re not alone. Fear or refusal around the toilet is incredibly common and usually signals a child’s need for more predictability, sensory support, or autonomy. It’s not a failure—it’s communication. I help families understand what might be driving the resistance and offer developmentally appropriate, emotionally responsive strategies to rebuild trust and ease. Together, we’ll create a plan that respects your child’s pace while gently moving forward. 

Your Potty Partners plan begins with a 30–60 minute call where I get to know your child, your family dynamic, and your physical space—including the bathroom setup. Within 24 hours, you'll receive a custom potty training plan designed just for your household. It includes detailed guidance on setting up your environment, choosing clothing that supports success, and creating a clear, consistent routine. Once you've had time to prepare and feel ready to begin, you let me know—and we kick off two full weeks of text support. I’ll be there to answer questions, troubleshoot challenges, and help you stay steady and confident throughout the process. My approach focuses on helping the adult as much as the child, so you feel equipped, not overwhelmed. 

This is one of the trickier parts of potty training, and you're not alone in facing it. Many caregivers, understandably, are nervous about accidents. I help you navigate these conversations with confidence and clarity, offering scripts and strategies to get everyone on the same page. We’ll build a plan that works for your real life, not just a textbook. Even if not every environment is ideal, progress is still absolutely possible.

I partner with schools, daycares, and community organizations to support toilet independence in a way that’s practical, respectful, and developmentally informed. I offer staff trainings, parent education sessions, and policy consulting tailored to your setting. Whether you're looking to improve classroom routines, align with VQB5 and CLASS standards, or help families take the lead at home, I can design a workshop or training that fits your needs. I also support programs in working with local Departments of Social Services (DSS) to review and update toileting policies, advocate for developmentally appropriate standards, and improve communication between providers and regulatory agencies. The goal is to create consistency, reduce stress, and help children succeed across all environments. 

Potty Partners offers digital resources and remote support to families anywhere, including the U.S., Canada, and beyond. In-person coaching and workshops are available in parts of Virginia, Washington D.C., and New York, as well as select locations in between when travel is arranged and compensation reflects the distance. If you're outside those areas or unsure whether you're within range, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to explore what’s possible.