How to use books to prep for potty training (and a list of my favorites!)
If you’re thinking about potty training your toddler sometime soon — or you're already knee-deep in it — you might be wondering where to even begin. There's so much advice out there, and if you’ve ever Googled “how to potty train,” you’ve probably already seen just how overwhelming it can feel.
One of my favorite tools to help ease into the process? Books.
Yep, all types of potty books!
Before we ever get out the tiny undies or start setting timers, I recommend reaching for a few great reads. Because in my experience as both a pediatric occupational therapist and a parent, books are one of the best ways to normalize the process of using the potty, reduce stress, and create connection around what can otherwise feel like a high-pressure transition.
Let’s talk about how to use books to prep for potty training, how they help during the process, and some of my favorite potty training books to keep on hand.
Why books are so helpful for potty training readiness
Books are a gentle, low-pressure way to introduce new ideas to toddlers… which is exactly what makes them so perfect for potty training!
When we read stories about other kids (or animals, or beloved characters) learning how to use the potty, our children get to explore that experience from a safe distance. They don’t have to jump into trying anything yet. They just get to observe, listen, and begin to understand the process.
Books offer:
Repetition — toddlers need to hear and see things many times before they feel confident trying them
Visual language — books show what’s happening in a way that’s often easier to understand than words alone
Emotional safety — stories give toddlers space to ask questions, laugh, or even feel nervous without the pressure to perform
If you're wondering how to prep for potty training, this is a great place to start. Even if you’re months away from actually beginning, reading a book like Potty by Leslie Patricelli or Ready to go: Pee by Lovevery can plant important seeds.
Using books DURING the potty training process
Once you’re in the thick of it – a bottomless toddler, cleaning supplies out, and a little bit of inevitable chaos – books are still incredibly useful. In fact, I often recommend having a few specific books in your “potty corner” or bathroom basket during the training phase.
Here’s why:
Books keep kids seated longer. One of the biggest challenges in potty training your toddler is helping them stay on the potty long enough for something to happen. Books help make this time enjoyable and less boring.
Books reinforce language and routines. Reading about the steps (feeling the urge, sitting down, wiping, washing hands) helps solidify the routine in your child’s mind.
Books make the potty feel like a “normal” place to be. The more we read about pottying, the more kids realize: this is something everyone does.
Even if your child isn’t super verbal yet, board books with simple language, fun flaps (like P is for Potty!), and sound buttons (like Potty Time with Elmo) are engaging and easy to connect with.
My favorite potty training books (as a mom and pediatric OT)
If you're looking to build a little collection to support your child, here are some of the best potty training books I’ve personally used and loved (and that I’ve added to my Amazon storefront for easy access!):
Potty by Leslie Patricelli – A toddler favorite. Super simple and silly.
Ready to go: Pee by Lovevery - A routine-based social story book that uses real photographs to help share the steps of the process.
Let’s Go to the Potty! By Allison Jandu – Includes a potty song within the text to make it fun and engaging.
What is Poop? By Katie Daynes - A lift-the-flap book all about normalizing poop.
P is for Potty! (Sesame Street) by Naomi Kleinberg – Lift-the-flap + Elmo = always a win.
I Am Learning How to Poop in the Toilet by Sarah Weissman Selznick – A great option for kids who may feel more hesitant about pooping in the potty.
Daniel Tiger’s Potty Time! – A fan favorite for kids who love Daniel Tiger and thrive on song and routine.
You can find a full list of my favorite potty training books (plus my favorite potties) right here in my Amazon list »
Some final thoughts
If your toddler isn’t showing signs of being quite ready, or if you’re not ready yet either, you don’t have to jump into potty training tomorrow. In fact, waiting until your child is truly ready often makes the process faster and easier in the long run.
But one thing you can do now — no matter where you are in the journey — is start reading potty books.
Books are a simple, beautiful way to build understanding, readiness, and trust. They help create predictability around an unfamiliar process. And more than anything, they offer a chance to connect.
Because potty training doesn’t have to be rushed, or stressful, or picture-perfect.
It can be warm, supportive, and even… kind of fun.
Want to learn more about how to prep for potty training? Join my FREE 5-Day Potty Prep Challenge!
📚 Happy reading (and potty prepping),
Jess