Evergreen Explorers Preschool | Olympia, WA

Ah, potty training. The developmental milestone that turns your sweet little cherub into a streaking nudist who screams “NO POTTY!” as they sprint past the bathroom.

If you're reading this with a faint scent of Desitin in the air and a toddler clinging to your leg, welcome. You’re not alone—and at Evergreen Explorers Preschool, we’re here to support both your kiddo and you through this unpredictable (and occasionally poop-covered) rite of passage.

We’ve helped many families in Olympia, WA, and beyond navigate the potty training waters—with less stress and more success. Here’s what research says, what actually works, and our favorite tricks (plus humor) to get those tiny cheeks on the toilet seat.

🚽 When Is a Good Time to Start Potty Training?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most kids are developmentally ready to begin potty training between 18 to 30 months, but it’s completely normal for some to start later. There’s no magic number—just readiness cues like:

Staying dry for 2+ hours
Showing interest in your bathroom habits (yes, this includes awkward eye contact while you go)
Communicating the urge to go
Hiding to poop (classic)

At Evergreen Explorers Preschool, we work with your child’s readiness, not against it. Because no one wins a power struggle over poop.

🔍 Potty Science: What the Experts Say

Research shows that child-led potty training leads to more success and fewer battles. A study published in Pediatrics found that kids who begin toilet training when they show signs of readiness—rather than a rigid age—are less likely to experience issues like constipation, withholding, or accidents.

Translation: forcing it can backfire. Let them lead the way, and your odds of dry undies go way up.

💡 Preschool Potty Training Tips (That Actually Work)

Here’s what we’ve seen work wonders for our preschoolers at Evergreen Explorers:

1. Normalize Potty Talk
Talk about pee and poop like it’s no big deal. If you giggle, they giggle. If you act grossed out, they might too. (Or worse—use it against you.)

2. Routine is Everything
We encourage potty breaks before transitions—before snacks, before going outside, before naps. Even if it’s just a try. At home, build this into your daily rhythm.

3. Celebrate Every Victory
Did your kid sit on the potty fully clothed? Cheered for themselves? Wiped their own butt like a mini hero? PRAISE! 🎉 Stickers, dance parties, whatever works—just make it fun.

4. Let Them Choose
From a potty chair to big kid underwear, let them pick their tools. Yes, that includes Lightning McQueen undies that you’ll be washing daily for the next month.

5. Skip the Shaming, Always
Accidents happen. Remind them that it’s okay, clean it up together, and move on. No guilt, just support.

😂 Our Favorite Real-Life Quotes from Potty Training Kids

Because laughter is better than tears (and cheaper than therapy):

“I didn’t poop. It’s just a warm rock in my pants.”
“I peed a little, but the rug drank it.”
“My poop says it doesn’t want to come out today.”

👩‍🏫 Potty Training & Preschool: We’ve Got You

At Evergreen Explorers, our in-home preschool program in Olympia, WA blends play-based learning with real-life skill building—including potty independence. We work alongside families to keep potty routines consistent, encouraging confidence and celebration every step of the way.

We don’t believe in shame or sticker charts that become PhD-level management. We believe in supporting each unique child with warmth, patience, and just enough humor to stay sane.

📍 Looking for Potty Training-Friendly Preschools Near Olympia?

Whether you’re searching for:

“preschools near me”
“daycares in Olympia WA”
“in-home preschool with potty training support”
“potty training help for toddlers”
“Montessori-style daycare Olympia”
or even “please someone help me get my kid to poop on the toilet” (yes, that’s a real search)...

…you’re in the right place. 💚

🪷 Come visit Evergreen Explorers Preschool!
Where potty training is just another part of the journey, not a battle. We offer personalized, play-based learning for toddlers and preschoolers ages 2.5 to 6 in a warm, homey environment with plenty of nature play, art, and yes…potty success stories.

Schedule a Tour Today or Join Our Waitlist for the Next Session!

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From Pull-Ups to Potty Pros: How to Help Your Little One Tackle the Toilet (Without Losing Your Mind)