Potty training is a major developmental milestone — and it’s hard.
No matter what route or tools you use, it’s going to be messy, exhausting, and filled with unexpected (and often embarrassing) moments.
Very rarely have I seen parents come away from it without a few battle scars.
So before we dive into the books to help with potty training, I want to pause and say:
You’re doing great.
Potty training is tough; even with the best preparation, it can still feel overwhelming. While I will write a separate post on steps to approach potty training with a positive mindset, today, I want to share some wonderful children’s books that I have used and recommend that can help lay the foundation early.
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1. A Potty For Me! By Karen Katz
This book features lift-the-flap pages that make reading interactive and fun — a huge plus for keeping toddlers engaged.
I personally had this book in both my infant and toddler classrooms, and even used it with my nephew to spark his interest in the potty.
This is by far my favorite potty training book, and I have used it in both home and daycare environments.
The book is the perfect length for toddler attention spans and does a great job explaining the potty process in a simple, relatable way.
Get it here: https://amzn.to/4jzEUVU
2. Once Upon a Potty By Alona Frankel
I discovered this gem during a bookstore trip, and I’m so glad I did.
This book offers detailed explanations of the potty process and even names correct body parts — something that’s incredibly valuable for building body awareness and vocabulary.
It’s a bit too wordy for infants and younger toddlers, but it’s an excellent tool for older twos and preschoolers.
Even better: there are separate editions for boys and girls, helping to explain anatomy in an age-appropriate, respectful way.
Girl Version: https://amzn.to/4lTD5Ey
Boy Version: https://amzn.to/4lTLbx1
3. Potty By Leslie Patricelli
I love Leslie Patricelli’s book series, and Potty is no exception.
Her simple style — both in words and illustrations — makes this book a breeze to read with little ones who have short attention spans.
It allows you to improvise as needed: linger on pages longer if the child is interested, or skip quickly if their attention wavers.
I have used this book and her other book, No No Yes Yes, and it allows me to tailor words and explain photos to the attention span of the child I am reading to.
The visuals clearly show the steps involved in potty use, and while perfect for infants and toddlers, even preschoolers can benefit from the simple text for early reading practice.
Get Potty here: https://amzn.to/42KDEJH
Check out No No Yes Yes here: https://amzn.to/4iXhCZ3
4. Diapers Are Not Forever By Elizabeth Verdick
Elizabeth Verdick’s books are staples in my classroom and at home with my nephew.
This book falls beautifully between the simplicity of Potty and the detail of Once Upon a Potty.
It explains the potty process with just enough words to be thorough, but not so many that it loses a young child’s interest.
It also includes important distinctions, like sitting vs. standing, and visually engaging illustrations that keep children involved.
Find it here: https://amzn.to/4lSx6jn
Everyone Poops By Taro Gomi
I’ll admit: the first time I picked up Everyone Poops, I wrinkled my nose.
But after working in a toddler classroom, I quickly learned never to judge a book by its cover.
This book was a daily favorite among my toddlers, and even preschoolers loved it.
Its simple, straightforward message — that everyone and everything poops — provided both humor and reassurance, helping normalize the process for young children.
Get it here: https://amzn.to/4jTfqm3
My Final Thoughts
Whatever direction you choose for your potty training journey, these books are tools I highly recommend having on hand.
And if you want a tip, start reading them early, well before potty training is on your radar.
Make these books part of your everyday storytime routine:
- Let your child flip flaps.
- Skip pages if they want.
- Close the book if they lose interest.
- Just keep the books present and available.
In my experience, this gentle, pressure-free exposure made all the difference.
I started reading potty books months before my nephew even showed an interest — and one day, he was the one bringing the book to me.
Start early. Read often. Follow their lead.
Please feel free to comment below if you have found another book that worked for you!
Check out our Resources for help in other areas of child development.
Featured Photo
Image by: Laura Ohlman
https://unsplash.com/@ohlmanphotography
