Rewards are among the best ways to encourage the child to use the potty seat appropriately. There is a difference between rewards and bribes. Being a Certified Potty Consultant, I always promote rewards. Rewards act as positive reinforcers. They help to motivate the child, shape their behaviour and strengthen their internal motivation. If the reward is given to a child’s ability in a positive manner then the reward will likely foster internal satisfaction.
Q: What rewards can be offered to the children in potty training?
A: This is something personal that varies from family to family. Rewards can be anything. Some examples are:
Edible:
M&M
Little Cad Peanut or almond Chocolates
Haribo bears
Marshmallows
Jelly beans
Fruit Popsicles
Tictac
Tangible:
Stickers
Small toys
Books
Hand stamps
Temporary tattoos
Non-Tangible:
Nature walk
TV Show
Tab/Screen Time
Baking Cookies/Cake
Library Story Time
Reward Charts: These are my favourite ones. I used them during my daughter’s potty training, and they did wonders for me. You can purchase them from Kmart or Big W but I prefer to customise them for children and involve them in completing potty training an exciting project! These reward charts are also called progress charts which help to track the progress in the potty training journey.
Reward jars: These are primarily customised jars in which children can collect their favourite toys, different shapes crayons and lollies.
On top of that, always give the child lots of physical praise and appreciation. Physically appreciate them with hugs, kisses, cuddles, high fives, funny songs and dances together etc. I remember when my daughter did first-time poop in the potty we clapped for her. She felt so proud and happy. After that diaper was history for us!
Some phrases you can say in appreciation are,” Mummy like it when you pee/poop on the potty, It makes me happy when you pee/poop on the potty or You should be proud of yourself to use the potty independently”.
The child should see, hear or feel that using a potty is the appropriate thing to do.
Always choose a reward according to the children’s interest. This gives them strong motivation to accomplish the earlier potty training.
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