If you’ve ever Googled “how to potty train my toddler,” you’ve probably seen it: the infamous 3-day potty training method. It’s everywhere, promising quick success, fewer accidents, and a diaper-free life by Monday.

And while that sounds great in theory, here’s the honest truth: potty training doesn’t magically happen in three days.

I’m Jess, a pediatric occupational therapist (OT) and mom of two, and I help parents create simple, sustainable routines for daily life. I’ve supported hundreds of families through the potty training process, and I’m here to lovingly say what most of those Instagram tips and parenting books won’t:

Potty training is a big developmental milestone. It takes time.

The Problem With the 3-Day Method

Let’s get clear: the idea that you can fully potty train your toddler in three days is a myth.

Yes, some kids can start the process in a focused weekend. And yes, you may see some early wins. But the belief that you can wrap up such a complex developmental skill in 72 hours? That sets parents up for disappointment.

Here’s why:

1. It ignores the learning curve

Potty training isn’t just about using the toilet. It involves body awareness, communication, self-regulation, motor planning, and independence. Those are big skills for little bodies and brains. Expecting them to master all of that in three days is unrealistic.

2. It skips key real-life scenarios

The 3-day method often focuses only on what happens at home. But what about:

Going out in public?
Using a daycare bathroom?
Dealing with fear of pooping on the toilet?
Handling accidents, regressions, or resistance?

These are common challenges that come after the weekend is over — and most 3-day plans don’t prepare parents for them.

**3. It puts too much pressure on parents and kids**

When a method promises success in three days, and you don’t get there? You feel like you failed. Your child feels that pressure, too. This can lead to shame, power struggles, or full-on potty resistance.

So many parents come to me saying, “We tried the 3-day method and it didn’t work. Now what?”

My answer: nothing went wrong. You just weren’t given a realistic roadmap.

**So, How Long Does Potty Training Take?**

Most children learn to use the potty consistently over the course of several weeks or even months. Some kids pick it up quickly, while others need more time, more practice, and more support. That’s normal.

Instead of focusing on how fast you can get through it, I encourage parents to focus on how supported they feel throughout it.

Because here’s the thing: when you have a plan, guidance, and someone to help you troubleshoot, it doesn’t have to feel like a chaotic guessing game.

What Makes My Potty Training Method Different

As both a pediatric OT (with extensive training and experience in potty learning) and a mom, I take a different approach.

My method is:

Rooted in routines: Because toddlers thrive on structure and repetition
Developmentally-appropriate: We work with your child’s brain, not against it
Play-based and low-pressure: We ditch the shame, power struggles, and randomized rewards
Realistic: Because parenting isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress

Instead of forcing potty training into a three-day sprint, we build it into your child’s everyday life. The potty becomes just another part of the routine — like brushing teeth or washing hands.

We also recognize that setbacks aren’t failures…. they’re part of the process. That shift in perspective changes everything!

Why I Created the Potty Training Pod

After working with so many families who felt defeated by the 3-day method, I knew parents needed more support — especially after the initial weekend.

That’s why I created the 4-Week Potty Training Pod: a real-time, guided program that gives you the step-by-step plan and the follow-through.

Inside the Pod, you’ll get:

A routines-based potty training method that works with your child’s unique pace
Real-time support and troubleshooting from me (a pediatric OT + mom of 2)
Daily access to ask questions and get personalized help
Community support from other parents walking the same path

We don’t rush the process. We work with your child and your life to make it doable and sustainable. You don’t need to buy three different books or second-guess every step. I’ll walk you through it from start to finish.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Behind

If your child didn’t “get it” in three days, you didn’t mess up.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, second-guessing yourself, or wondering why everyone else seems to have it figured out… I promise, you’re not alone. Potty training takes time! And that’s not a problem, that’s just how development works.

If you’re ready for a method that meets your child where they are (and supports you while they learn), I’d love to support you inside the next round of the Potty Training Pod.

Click HERE to learn more and sign up for the waitlist to be first to know when doors open!

Why the 3-Day Potty Training Method is a Myth (and What Actually Works)