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I'd Like to Hire Someone to Potty Training My Child at My House
Are you wanting to have a potty trained child by the start of school, but feeling overwhelmed by the process? That’s why The Potty School exists: we help parents and caregivers potty train their children (both special needs and neuro-typical). Hiring a professional potty trainer for your child at home can be a game-changer. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of asking for (and getting) the help of a professional to guide you through this process because let’s be real celebrating a potty trained child is a lot more fun than cleaning up pees and poos for months on end - or getting called to pick up you child who made a mess at school.
A professional potty trainer brings expertise and experience to the table. They are able to create personalized plan to fit your child's specific needs and personality, making the process more efficient and effective. It’s not a 1-year plan: it’s a what can we do today, tomorrow and how you can follow-up for the next two weeks. They can also provide valuable tips and techniques to overcome common challenges and expedite the progress.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The cost of hiring a professional can be a surprising investment. Though investing in a professional potty trainer is an investment, so is diapering and that’s probably been happening for years being deemed a “normal” monthly expense.
Also, some families may worry about relying too much on outside help and not learning the skills to handle future challenges with their own child. When we first started, in 2016, we used to “potty train for you” in people’s homes. We quickly learned that that wasn’t a sustainable method for parents long-term. Now, our consultants are trained to train you (and your child) simultaneously so that you both know the expectations when the consultant departs your home.
We understand that the decision to hire a professional potty trainer for your child at home is a personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice that lines up with your values, goals and parenting preferences. So, let's jump in and explore this toilet-training journey together.
You’ve heard it before: potty training is a significant milestone in a child's development. It marks the transition from diapers to using the toilet independently, promoting their overall growth and independence. According to Stanford Medicine Children’s Health “Toilet training is teaching your child to recognize their body signals for urinating and having a bowel movement. It also means teaching yoru child to use a potty chair or toilet correctly and at the appropriate times.”
When your child is potty trained it can save you time, money (allllll those diapers and wipes) and frustration in the long run. It also allows for “I can” moments that parents get to witness and be a part of, which boosts their self-esteem and confidence, setting the stage for further learning and achievement.
Pros of Hiring a Potty Training Specialist to Come to Your Home
Expertise and Experience: One of the significant advantages of hiring a professional potty trainer is our expertise and experience in the field. We have helped numerous children navigate through this process, giving us valuable insights and strategies to ensure success. With our guidance, you can benefit from a personalized plan tailored to your child's specific needs and personality, making the process more efficient and effective.
Effective Techniques and Tips: As professional potty trainers we have a repertoire of effective techniques and tips to overcome common challenges that arise during potty training. We move beyond putting “aiming” Cheerios in the toilet and giving out M&Ms or stickers for treats. We understand that every child is unique and may respond differently to various approaches so we are trained, and experienced in pivoting. By leveraging our knowledge, we can provide you with practical strategies to address specific concerns, such as fear of the toilet or resistance to using it consistently.
Accelerated Progress: With one of The Potty School’s professional potty trainers by your side, you can expect accelerated progress in your child's potty training journey. Our expertise allows us to identify and address any underlying issues or obstacles that may be hindering your child's progress. By providing targeted guidance and support, we can help your child grasp the concepts and skills needed for successful potty training more quickly.
Cons of Hiring a Potty Training Consultant to Come to Your Home
Cost Considerations: One of the main drawbacks of hiring a professional potty trainer is the associated cost. Professional services can be a significant investment, and it's essential to consider whether it fits within your budget. However, it's important to remember that the cost can vary depending on factors such as location, the trainer's experience, and the duration of the training program. You may need to weigh the financial implications against the potential benefits and your own comfort level. Also, you should value it against how much you are currently paying (probably $80- $150 per month on diapers and wipes at this point) and the hassle and even environmental burden because of diapering.
Dependency on Outside Help: Another concern some families may have is the potential dependency on outside help when relying on a professional potty trainer. While the trainer can provide invaluable guidance and support, there is a risk that parents may become reliant on their expertise and not develop their own skills to handle future challenges. It's crucial to strike a balance between seeking professional help and fostering your own confidence and abilities as a parent. As stated before, that is something we learned right quick when we started this business - that our business is the parent, and the child, not the other way around. We need you the parent to feel confident and like you know what to do as well as the child.
Personalized Approach: While professional potty trainers can offer personalized plans, there is still the possibility that their strategies may not align perfectly with your child's unique personality or needs. But, that is why we take the time to have an initial call before we even do our initial in-take questionnaire and why we do that in-take questionnaire ahead of the consultation so our consultants have time to prepare. It's essential to communicate openly with the trainer and ensure that their approach resonates with your parenting style and values. This way, you can create a collaborative partnership that helps the potty training consultant really get to know your family well so that the methods hey choose will be most successful for your family.
Not sure if home potty training is right for you? Take this quick quiz to help you decide:
Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Potty Training Consultant or Professional Potty Trainer
Before making a decision to hire a potty training consultant, there are a few key factors to consider:
Readiness of Your Child: Assess your child's readiness for potty training. Or not. At The Potty School we believe that if the parents are ready, the child is ready. They mostly just need a loving adult to help guide and train them and we’re equipped with various methods to help. We teach Elimination Communication, Potty Training and Special Needs Potty Training, which we call Sensory-Based Elimination. Commonly the “signs” potty trainers request are things like showing interest in the bathroom, staying dry for more extended periods, or expressing discomfort with soiled diapers. But, those are teachable “signs”.
Time and Availability: Reflect on your own schedule and availability. Potty training requires follow-up after the potty training home consultation. Consider whether you have the time and energy to devote to the process, as well as the ability to maintain a routine and follow through with the strategies provided by a professional potty trainer. But, also remember that the “time” and “energy” will now be trained so you won’t be shooting from the hip after your consultant leaves, you’ll have an example of what it looks like.
Personal Comfort Level: Evaluate your comfort level with seeking outside help for potty training. Some parents may feel confident in their own abilities and prefer to tackle the task independently, but those parents probably aren’t reading this article. Others may feel overwhelmed or unsure and see the value in enlisting the help of a professional. It's essential to prioritize your own comfort and confidence in making this decision. It’s a risk to have a complete stranger in your home, we understand that. But, this isn’t the only profession where professionals come directly into the home - think of situations like home care aides, or home nursing help, or occupational therapy or speech therapy. All of those professionals are background checked and trained - just like potty training consultants at The Potty School are as well.
Budget: Consider your budget and financial resources. Hiring a professional potty trainer comes with a cost, and it's important to assess whether it aligns with your financial situation. If you have access to an Air B&B or a guest area, let your consultant know as that may give you some leverage to negotiate costs. Explore different options and price ranges to find a balance between affordability and quality of service.
While hiring a professional potty trainer is one approach to potty training, there are alternative methods you can consider:
Self-Guided Approach: Some parents may choose to take a self-guided approach to potty training, relying on books, online resources, and their own instincts. This method allows for flexibility and can be tailored to fit your child's unique needs. However, it requires thorough research and a willingness to adapt as you go. We’d recommend starting with The Complete Guide to Potty Training by The Potty School’s CEO, Michelle D. Swaney.
Peer Support: Engaging with other parents who are going through or have gone through potty training can provide valuable insights and support. Joining parenting groups or online communities can connect you with a network of individuals who can offer advice, encouragement, and shared experiences. We have some free support groups on Facebook where you can get input from people with a plethora of opposing opinions about what they think and don’t think is helpful and can give input on what you’ve wanting to try. This is great for someone who enjoys diving into a wealth of information and sifting through what may be helpful for their particular situation, on their own. Facebook Group here or here.
Potty Training Course or Potty Training Membership or Potty Training Class: This is a great option for families who don’t have children with special needs or unique situations. This gives general advice, and enough solution ideas that you can navigate a few options on your own without feeling the overwhelm of 12 options. The Potty School’s course/membership guides you along on a 5-step success path so you won’t be overwhelmed with too many options and will be provided with resources to help you reach the inchstones within each milestone - including printables, mini-series, checklists,etc. This is a great method for those on-the-go because the modality can be anything from videos, to audio to transcripts to even searchable fields that search all of the data in order to help you find info in the modality of your choice about particular keywords or topics. You can even bring core content with you via podcast. Check-out The Potty School’s Course: Diapers–to-Flush here.
Gradual Transition: Instead of diving straight into potty training, some families opt for a gradual transition. This can involve introducing the concept of using the toilet gradually, such as starting with sitting fully clothed, then moving to sitting on the toilet with a diaper, and eventually transitioning to using the toilet without a diaper.
Personalized Help, but not in the home: Seeking potty training consultant could also mean that you seek personalized advice, but you try it on your own. We provide services via phone, Zoom and even virtual home consultations. This is an option for families that want to combine professional help with a do-it-yourself mentality. The drawback of this service is that you don’t have an in-person example to follow or hours-worth of back and forth conversations and questions being asked.
How to Choose the Right Potty Training Consultant
When selecting a potty training specialist, keep the following considerations in mind:
Qualifications and Experience: Look for trainers who have relevant qualifications and experience in potty training. Consider their training methods, success rates, and testimonials from previous clients. A trainer who specializes in potty training and has a track record of success can provide reassurance and confidence in their abilities. This is what our in initial 15-minute calls are for. [LINK TO HOME CONSULT CALLS HERE]
Compatibility and Communication: It's essential to find a potty training specialist who aligns with your parenting style and values. Schedule a consultation or interview to gauge their compatibility and ensure that you can communicate effectively. A trainer who listens, understands, and respects your concerns and preferences will facilitate a collaborative and positive learning environment for your child.
Availability and Flexibility: Consider the trainer's availability and flexibility in accommodating your schedule. Potty training requires consistency, and having a trainer who can work with your timetable can greatly enhance the process. Remember that summer months can fill-up quickly and that many families wait until August to schedule only to be scheduled a month or more out.
Approach and Philosophy: Discuss the trainer's approach and philosophy regarding potty training. And, then ask if they are flexible to accommodate the needs of your family into “their” approach. Ensure that their methods align with your preferences and goals. Some potty training specialists may adopt a more structured and intensive approach, while others may focus on a gentler, child-led method. Choose a trainer whose approach resonates with you and your child's needs.
Questions to Ask a Potty Training Consultant Before Hiring
To ensure you find the right professional potty trainer for your child, consider asking the following questions during the interview or consultation:
What is your experience with potty training?
What is your success rate with previous clients?
What is your approach to potty training?
How do you handle challenges or setbacks during the process?
How do you tailor your approach to fit each child's unique needs?
What strategies do you use to motivate and encourage children during potty training?
How do you involve parents in the process and provide ongoing support?
What is your availability and flexibility in accommodating our schedule?
Cost Considerations of Hiring a Potty Training Consultant
The cost of hiring a professional potty trainer can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location, the trainer's experience and qualifications, and the duration and intensity of the training program. It's essential to research and compare different options to find a trainer whose fees align with your budget. Remember to consider the potential long-term savings in diapers and the time and stress that can be saved by investing in professional help.
Testimonials and Success Stories from Parents Who Hired Professional Potty Trainers
Hearing from parents who have experienced the benefits of hiring a professional potty trainer can provide valuable insights and reassurance. Here are a few testimonials and success stories:
"[The Potty School Potty Training Consultant] has been very kind and thoughtful with all of her ideas. As my son is challenging with his behaviors she continues to think of new things that may help us on our journey to use the potty successfully!" - Kelly, Mother of Child with Special Needs
"Our consultation was great. We talked through the details of the obstacle our son was running into with using the potty. We implemented the recommended changes right away and the improvement was almost instant. It was so helpful to talk with someone who is so experienced and was interested in our son's specific situation." - Kristina, mother
"They were so knowledgeable and encouraging. They gave excellent advice. We did not feel judged at all." - Mary & Carl, mom and dad
Conclusion: Weighing the Options and Making the Best Decision for Your Child
The decision to hire a potty training consultant for your child at home is a personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering alternative methods, and evaluating your own readiness and resources, you can make an informed choice that matches up with your values, goals & parenting philosophy. We know that every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be open to adapting your approach and seeking the support you need to ensure a successful potty training journey for your child. We would love the opportunity to serve your family.
Ready to Learn More about The Potty School's Home Potty Training Consultations?
Book a 15-minute "best fit" call here to see if we're the best fit for your family, HERE.
Or, if you're ready and don't even want a call - you can book directly here, scroll to the bottom.
Have questions about hiring a Potty Training Consultant at The Potty School? Submit them below.
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