It’s not for the weak. I just spent the last week & half training our almost 3-year-old twins, and let me tell you, it was an adventure. I think when you embark on anything classified as a “process” with multiples, it makes you a little fearful. My advice though? Strap in, grab your potty seat(s), and go at it.

I made the decision that when we started, I was going to go full-force, no slacking. I don’t have time to deal with this potty stuff for months and months…after all, I do have 3 other children to take care of. I waited till I knew they were ready and capable. How did I do it? I’m so glad you asked.

• I put them in underwear right from the start. I don’t mess with pull-ups that feel like diapers at home. So if they pee, they soak their pants. I know, it’s a lot of laundry. But if they are truly ready to train, it works. No kid is going to be ok with being in soaked pants. I really believe it helps them learn faster rather than relying on a “pull-up” for accident security.

• With that said, I do use pull-ups sometimes if we are running multiple errands…just in case. Every kid is going to have accidents. I do however, buy a pull-up with a character on it that they love. So I say, “these are your special princess underwear, don’t pee on the princess!”  They laugh, and shockingly, take to the idea very well. One character underwear at home, another character pull-up when we go out. Don’t pee on either .

• You will be amazed at how multiples will encourage each other. I pushed them to cheer each other on, and they did. They loved celebrating the victories, and it was too cute to watch them.

• We did an award system, and it worked beautifully. Once they had scored many small treats individually, I changed it up a bit and only gave out rewards when they both had a potty success. That was a huge incentive for them.

So besides the fact that I’m in a public restroom 3 times more often than I was a month ago  (and I do not like public restrooms), I only have 2 in diapers now instead of four. So wait till they’re ready, gear up, and start training! It may not always be the most enjoyable thing you’ve ever done, but the potty training “season” makes for some really interesting stories and memories!

(photo by clairity)