Potty Training 101: Helpful Books for Kids and Their Parents
by Jennifer Ridgway
As I begin the journey toward toilet training my twins, I’ve been turning to books and to fellow parents for some advice. I’m looking at various approaches to decide what will work best for both my husband and I and our kids. I also know that introducing my children to the idea via books of their own will be incredibly helpful and possibly inspire them to give it a go (literally).
For all of you looking for some great resources, I hope these lists of potty-dedicated books — one for you and one for your child — will be helpful.
Good luck!
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For Your Child:
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Potty Time with Bean (Ms. Rachel)
Buy from:Children will love learning about using the potty from America’s favorite teacher and YouTube sensation, Ms. Rachel. In the story, Ms. Rachel helps her young friend, Bean, learn to use the potty. With upbeat text, adorable illustrations, and familiar songs, this book is a must-have for toddlers.
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P is for Potty!
Buy from:Elmo is an expert at introducing concepts to the younger set, and this story of how he teaches his little cousin to use the potty is no exception. Toddlers will enjoy peeking under the many flaps, too.
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Time to Use the Potty
Buy from:Jack and Jasmine have new potties and underwear but resist using them correctly. As the twins get accustomed to their potties and undies, they learn to use both. This adorable story is perfect for helping young children overcome their potty-related fears and promotes good hygiene.
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Going to the Potty
Buy from:(The) Mr. Rogers presents potty training as part of the growing up process. The book has pictures of real children, which helps make it relatable. The tone is gentle and encouraging. An oldie but a goodie.
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Where Do You Poop? A Potty Training Board Book
Buy from:Everyone poops — even animals! Each page in this board book features a different animal getting ready to do the deed. Pull on the tabs to make the animal “poop” and encourage your little one to do the same (in the toilet). Children will giggle over every page of this hilarious and unconventional potty-training board book.
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Even Superheroes Use the Potty
Buy from:Did you know that superheroes use the potty? Everyone from firefighters to magicians needs to use the potty. This colorful book features rhyming text, engaging illustrations, and various heroes using the toilet.
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Potty
Buy from:With bright, graphic pictures and simple text, this book not only shows your child what they actually need to do to go potty, but also engages them, as the Baby asks questions that your child will want to answer.
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Skip to the Loo, My Darling! A Potty Book
Buy from:Bunny is at a party when he suddenly needs to use the potty! Fortunately, he knows just what to do — skip to the loo! Soon, more critters skip to the loo, including piglets, an elephant, and a dodo bird. Rollicking, rhyming text, adorable illustrations, and hilarious puns will have kids (and adults) giggling all the way to the bathroom.
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The New Potty (Little Critter)
Buy from:Mercer Mayer fans will love this humorous story about Little Critter helping his sister learn to use the potty. From successes to misses, Little Critter supports his sister every step of the way. This classic potty-training book is a must-have for every toddler’s bookshelf!
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Time to Go Potty!
Buy from:This interactive board book makes potty training a fun experience for your child. With colorful illustrations, rhyming text, and a sound button to push, this story offers little ones their first introduction to the potty. Children will want to read this one on repeat!
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For You:
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Diaper-Free Before 3
Buy from:If you want to get a head start on potty training instead of waiting until your child is older, this book offers a method to help. Dr. Jill Lekovic uses medical studies and her experience as a pediatrician and parent to deliver her advice. By introducing the potty earlier, you could avoid much of the fear and tears that often accompany potty training.
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The First-Time Parent's Guide to Potty Training
Buy from:Potty training is challenging for even the most experienced parents, let alone first-time parents! This book guides new parents through a system designed to transition kiddos from diapers to undies in three days. With extra tips for stubborn or anxious children, this book is the perfect handbook to see you through.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics Guide to Toilet Training
Buy from:The AAP’s guide is a great primer as you start thinking about your journey. It delves into how to decide if your child is ready and emphasizes every child’s individuality. It covers specific problems that may arise and also address some unique situations (for example: twins, children with special needs).
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Ready, Set, Go!
Buy from:Parents who want a gentle approach to potty training will love this book from parenting expert Sarah Ockwell-Smith. Inside, you’ll learn how to tell when your child is ready for potty training and advice on how to help them grow accustomed to using a potty. This method is best for parents who want to keep the process as stress-free as possible.
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You might also like:
- Best Touch-and-Feel Books for Your Baby’s Bookshelf
- 4 Developmental Signs Your Child Is Ready for Potty Training
- Counting Books That Won’t Bore You
- Must-Have Books for 2-Year-Olds
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.