by Rachel Howells

Created on: June 21, 2009   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

When our children first learn to use the potty it is one of the biggest thrills of parenthood. We become so excited over those initial potty successes that sometimes we throw caution to the wind, and the diapers in the trash, before heading out the door. This is a mistake.

Complacency in parenthood is never wise, especially in the early stages of potty training. With this in mind, if you do not want to get stuck in the middle of a department store with a sopping wet, wailing 2-year-old, a certain degree of diligence and preparation is crucial. Some practical suggestions for handling potty training while out include the following:

~ Go Before You Go ~

This might seem like a no-brainer, but if you do not think of it beforehand, in your rush to leave the house this proactive move might be overlooked, much to your potty training peril. Therefore, make it a rule that your little darling must use the potty before you go out. Do this even if both you and your child think it is unnecessary. The objective here is to make it a habit.

~ Potty Persistence ~

When you are out, ask your potty-in-training child approximately every 30 to 45 minutes if she has to go to the potty. She will probably communicate to you that she does not have to go. After an hour or hour and a half has passed and she still insists she does not have to go, take her anyway.

It is common, even for children who are already fully potty trained, to not want to stop whatever activity they are engaged in to go to the bathroom. They are simply having too much fun, and in their young minds fear that if they interrupt what they are doing to use the toilet, the fun is over.

The best thing to do is reassure your child that she can return to her activity as soon as she goes to the potty. The easiest way to avert a tantrum in a situation like this is to act like Barney and with exaggerated exuberance exclaim, "Yah! We're going to the potty! You're so lucky to be such a big kid to go to the potty all by yourself!"

Then, immediately swoop your child up in your arms, or else grab her hand, and lead her to the nearest bathroom. Even if it makes you feel silly, chatter away with extreme enthusiasm as you make your way to the facilities. Tell her how happy you are that she is going to go to the potty, and that she is the best kid in the whole entire world. There is a reason why adults embarrass themselves by overacting in children's television programs - it captures their attention.

Once you arrive at the bathroom,

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