Before beaching it with a potty-training toddler, make sure your child's got it (somewhat) down at home first. We waited until our 23-month-old daughter went days without accidents before we were beach-bound.
It wasn't much different than an outing to the store for us. But we did have to pack–and think about–a few extra things before heading out the door.
Choose the right beach. A beach with a restroom nearby is ideal. Foldable potty seats help make it less scary, or you can hold your child over the toilet without touching the public toilet seat.
Bring something portable. If a restroom isn't available or is much too far away, then bring a portable potty chair or even a bucket. There are tons of styles, including ones made of plastic or even cardboard; ones in which your child poops or pees into a plastic liner for easy disposal. We have a plastic potty chair with a handle in the back, which makes it easy to throw in the back of the car. It's not specifically a travel potty, but it's lightweight and easy to take around. We just didn't want to buy anything extra–or anything she wasn't used to using.
The first two beach outings, we packed the potty and left it in the trunk, just in case. We never brought it to the sand. After not using it both times, and realizing that our daughter empties her bladder before leaving the house, we left the potty at home.
If fish do it... If fish pee in the ocean, then humans can too, right? Sounds gross, but it's happening. Our daughter has no problem peeing in her swimsuit. She always makes sure to announce it, too!
If animals do it... Animals go number one and number two on land; it shouldn't be offensive if a toddler does, too. Our friends with boys say it's the only way they'll pee. For privacy, find a secluded spot. And just like with pets, please pick up after your child.
Pack extras. As always, throw an extra pair of clothes and undies in your bag in case of accidents. Pack baby wipes or something to clean up messes. We usually keep some in our car.
READ MORE: Sun protection for a surfing toddler // Tandeming with a toddler
Comments