If you’ve spent even a few minutes in parenting groups online, you’ve probably seen the bold claims:
“Potty trained in just 3 days!”
“My child ditched diapers over one weekend!”
It sounds amazing — and a little overwhelming, right? Let’s take a moment to unpack the truth about the 3-day potty training method — and why it might not be what it seems.
What Is the 3-Day Potty Training Method?
The “3-day” approach is a popular method where parents go all-in over a dedicated period (often a long weekend). They ditch the diapers, keep their child in underwear, stay home, and make frequent trips to the potty.
It’s sometimes called the cold turkey method — no more diapers, no turning back.
The idea is to help the child make a strong connection between their body’s signals and the potty — fast. So… Does It Work?
Yes and no.
Some kids respond well to the structure and attention of the method. They begin to understand the process within a few days and can have many successful potty trips. But here’s what many parents don’t realize:
Potty training doesn’t end in 3 days.
What can happen in 3 days:
• Your child learns what the potty is for
• They have a few successful wees or poos
• They begin to recognise the urge
• You transition out of daytime diapers. What usually doesn’t happen in 3 days:
• Full independence
• No accidents at all
• Nighttime dryness
• Comfort with pooping on the potty
• Long-term consistency
Potty Training Is a Process, Not a Sprint!
Learning to use the toilet is a big developmental step — and like walking, talking, or sleeping through the night, it happens at a different pace for every child.
Some kids need:
• Gentle encouragement and low pressure
• More time to feel secure without diapers
• Support managing fears around pooping
• Patience during regressions or transitions (like starting daycare)
And none of that means you’re doing anything wrong.
So Should You Try the 3-Day Method?
If your child is showing strong readiness signs, you have a clear weekend with no outings, and you’re prepared to stay consistent after the three days — it can be a great jumpstart.
But what if your child resists, melts down, or doesn’t quite “get it” by day 3? That’s okay. It’s not a failure. It just means they need a different approach — one that honors their pace.
Let Go of the Pressure. Do What Works for Your Child.
The truth is: there’s a lot of noise out there.
But potty training isn’t a race. It’s a skill — one that takes practice, patience, and often, a few messes along the way.
Whether your child trains in 3 days, 3 weeks, or 3 months, it doesn’t define their intelligence or your parenting.
You’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re learning together.
And if you want support that’s tailored to your child’s personality, daycare schedule, or strong-willed nature, I’m here to help.
Ready to ditch the pressure and create a plan that actually fits your family?
[Work with me 1:1] or [Download my Free Readiness Checklist.]