Potty training can be a tricky process. One of the important aspects of potty training is having a potty that your child likes and feels comfortable going “potty” on. There are many different potty training toilet seats out there. Here are some tips on how to pick the best potty seat for your child.
Potty Seat with Handles
Typically, this is one of the more economical choices. Also, it does not take up very much space. Kids can hold onto the handles, which prevents them from holding onto the toilet seat itself. In this way, they are nice and hygienic. Walmart has several character potty seats with animals such as Winnie the Pooh and Disney’s Cars. These seats are made by The First Years and cost $12.98. They have a soft seat and a “deflector shield for boys.” Finally, the cushion can be easily removed for cleaning. Look for these on sale. I got a Tinkerbell one on sale at Babies R Us for only $7.50.
Convertible Toilet Seats
Convertible seats come with a toilet base that sits on the ground. Often times the top is removable and fits on top of a regular toilet too. After the child is done toilet training, the base can be converted into a step stool. A good choice for this type of seat is the Sesame Street Elmo Potty Chair. I personally have this seat. Kids can press Elmo and he says words of encouragement. I really liked this also because the base is low and has anti-skid grippers for safety. Thus, when I converted it to a step stool, I didn’t have to worry about it tipping easily. The downside to these is you have to clean them out. This costs $24.99 at Sears.
Musical and Rewards Potty Seats
These seats are good for those who might need a little more motivation. They often have their own “flusher” and toilet paper holder to help ease the transition from potty seat to a real toilet. The Fisher-Price Cheer for Me Potty has five phrases and two sing along training songs to help encourage your child. This also has a removable seat that goes onto the potty. Kids will love this seat because it has a sensor on it that allows the potty to sing when your child goes to the bathroom. This seat costs around $30.00 at amazon.com.
Toilet Seat with Built in Potty
These are great for children, especially smaller children, even after they have mastered toilet training. This seat has “a built-in child’s insert that disappears into the lid when not in use.” Thus, this eliminates having to take the potty seat on and off. In addition, it allows your child to be more independent. Finally, it is good for families with small bathrooms. One Step Ahead makes a seat like this for round toilets. The plastic option costs $34.95 and a pine one costs $49.95.
Good luck with the potty training.
Sources:
onestepahead.com
amazon.com
walmart.com
sears.com
