Potty training and poo fears: Expert tips from Amanda Jenner

It’s completely normal for children to feel a bit nervous about number twos – but with the right tools (and tunes), there are plenty of ways to help them feel more relaxed and in control. So, let’s take a look at how you can get things moving in the right direction.

Fear of the unknown

For little ones, the potty is a whole new world – different, unfamiliar, and not quite as cosy as their nappy.

What can help:

• Introduce the potty gradually – let it become part of the furniture (literally). Let your child sit on it fully clothed, decorate it with stickers, or even name it if they like.

• The Potty Training Tonie can help kick things off gently, especially in the “Leo and Lily start their potty training journey” story, helping children feel seen, soothed, and not so wary.

Amanda’s top tip: “Wrap up some little prizes and pop them on a bathroom shelf where your child can see them. Add a little poo emoji to the front for extra fun! A little reward can go a long way.”

The need for privacy

You finally get your child to sit on the potty… and suddenly they whisper, “Can I do it on my own?”

What can help:

• Respect the request – give them a little space while letting them know you’re nearby. When out and about, find a quiet spot.

• The Potty Training Tonie reinforces that potty time is totally normal, not scary, and definitely not something to hide.

Pain or discomfort

If your little one has had a painful poo, they might decide they'd rather not go at all – which leads to a cycle of discomfort and... well, more holding.

What can help:

• Boost fibre and water, keep things moving, and speak to your GP if you’re worried.

• To lighten the mood and teach them about what happens in their tummy, pop on the Potty Training Tonie and tap through to “The slippery slide adventure of food” story – it’s educational and entertaining!

Amanda’s clever hack: “Blow bubbles while they’re sitting on the potty. It helps relax their bowel and bladder muscles… Plus, who doesn’t love bubbles?”

Control and independence

Toddlers have strong opinions. And sometimes, saying “no” to the potty is more about control than confidence.

What can help:

• Let them lead where possible – choosing their own potty, training pants, or even a reward chart. Celebrate small wins and don’t stress over setbacks.

• Got a wobbly day? “The pants dance” track on the Potty Training Tonie is the perfect reset button.

Amanda’s tip: “If your little one refuses to sit on the potty after making good progress, don’t worry – just get back on track as soon as you can. Start a new reward system to gently encourage them again. And if that doesn’t work, give it a short break for a week or two, then try again with a fresh start.”

Routine changes

New baby? Moving house? Starting nursery? Any big shift can throw potty progress off track.

What can help:

• Try to avoid starting during major life changes (if possible). Once you're in a rhythm, build consistency into the day.

• The Potty Training Tonie has a mix of stories and songs that help build a sense of routine and familiarity.

Comfort and familiarity

If your child has only ever done their business in a nappy, switching to the potty might feel like saying goodbye to a beloved security blanket.

What can help:

• Start with training pants to bridge the gap, and work up to underwear once they’re ready. Celebrate every dry hour!

• Tap the Toniebox through to the “Big boy, big girl pants are exciting!” track on the Tonie – part story, part encouragement session, and guaranteed to help them feel like the big kid they are.

Poo fears are real – but they’re also totally normal. The Potty Training Tonie is here to support your journey, with expert tips, joyful songs, gentle stories and a few clever tricks from Amanda Jenner. So pop it on, get those bubbles ready, and remember: every little “yay, I did it!” is worth celebrating.