18 Best Potty Training Books for Toddlers to Make Potty Time Easier
Potty training is one of the biggest milestones for toddlers — and one of the biggest challenges for parents!
Fortunately, the best potty training books for toddlers can make this journey smoother, more fun, and much less stressful.
Whether you’re just starting to introduce the idea or dealing with a toddler who’s a little resistant, having the right books on hand can be a total game-changer.
Choosing from the best potty training books for toddlers can help make this major milestone a smoother, happier experience for both kids and parents.
When I potty trained my youngest, silly books like ‘Potty’ by Leslie Patricelli really helped lighten the mood and reduce stress.
In this guide, I’m sharing 18 of the best potty training books that are sure to help your child learn with confidence — and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
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Why Use Potty Training Books?
Introducing a potty training book into your daily routine gives toddlers a clear visual of what’s expected of them. Books also normalize accidents, encourage independence, and provide reassurance that potty training is part of growing up.
As I worked on potty training my own kids, the right book often broke the tension and helped them feel proud and excited instead of overwhelmed.
When picking the best potty training books for toddlers, look for simple language, engaging pictures, and a positive storyline.
If you’re also preparing for potty training during travel, check out my tips on potty training travel tips for toddlers to keep the progress going even on the go!
18 Best Potty Training Books
Here are the top 18 picks for parents looking for fun, engaging, and effective potty books.
1. “Potty” by Leslie Patricelli
This cheerful and simple board book captures a toddler’s curiosity about using the potty. It’s perfect for younger toddlers who are just starting to explore.
If you’re starting potty training on the go, you might love these potty training travel tips for toddlers.
2. “Everyone Poops” by Taro Gomi
A classic! This book normalizes bathroom habits in a nonchalant, humorous way that toddlers (and parents) love.
3. “Potty Time with Elmo” (Sound Book)
If your toddler loves Elmo, this interactive sound book will be a hit. The flushing sound is oddly motivating!
4. “Once Upon a Potty” by Alona Frankel (Boy & Girl versions)
This book speaks directly to toddlers in simple, reassuring language, covering the potty process from start to finish.
5. “Big Girl Panties” by Fran Manushkin
Celebrate the transition from diapers to big girl underwear with this charming, empowering story.
6. “Daniel Tiger’s Potty Time” by Scarlett Wing
Daniel Tiger offers friendly encouragement for potty training, making this book an excellent addition to your toolkit.
7. “The Potty Book for Girls” and “The Potty Book for Boys” by Alyssa Satin Capucilli
These books offer gender-specific potty journeys with rhyming text and bright illustrations.
8. “Dino Potty” by Sara Conway
For dino-loving toddlers, this book turns potty training into a prehistoric adventure!
9. “Potty Superhero” by Mabel Forsyth
Every toddler loves feeling like a superhero! This positive story empowers toddlers to take charge of potty time.
“Looking for a little motivation? Here are 61 encouraging potty training quotes to keep your spirits high.
10. “Even Firefighters Go to the Potty” by Wendy Wax
Realizing that even heroes have bathroom breaks makes potty training a lot more relatable (and hilarious) for kids.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ potty training guidelines, every child develops at their own pace.
11. “Princess Potty” by Samantha Berger
For little ones who love all things royal, this book crowns potty training as an exciting step toward becoming a “big girl.”
12. “Where’s the Poop?” by Julie Markes
A lift-the-flap book that’s engaging and encourages conversation about bodily functions in a fun, non-scary way.
13. “No More Diapers for Ducky!” by Bernette Ford
A sweet story about a duckling learning to use the potty with a friend — because sometimes a little peer pressure helps!
14. “A Potty for Me!” by Karen Katz
Karen Katz’s lift-the-flap style is perfect for younger toddlers who need an interactive experience while learning.
15. “P is for Potty!” (Sesame Street)
Another Sesame Street hit, this sturdy flap book makes potty training a happy, colorful experience.
16. “I Want My Potty” by Tony Ross
Princess has decided diapers are for babies — and her independent attitude is contagious.
17. “Llama Llama Potty Time” by Anna Dewdney
The beloved Llama Llama character brings warmth, humor, and encouragement to the potty training experience.
18. “How to Pee: Potty Training for Boys” by Todd Spector
A humorous and practical guide specifically designed for training boys — a must if you’re navigating that adventure!
Some of the best potty training books for toddlers also include interactive elements like flaps and sounds to keep kids engaged.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ potty training guidelines, each child is ready on their own timeline.
How to Choose the Best Potty Training Book for Your Child
These highly-rated choices are among the best potty training books for toddlers available today — and parents love how effective they are!
Here’s what to consider:
- Age: Board books for 18–24 months, storybooks for 2–3 years.
- Interests: Dinosaurs? Princesses? Trucks? Pick a theme your child loves.
- Tone: Some toddlers respond to humor; others need gentle encouragement.
- Format: Lift-the-flap and sound books add extra engagement.
You can also help your child feel empowered with other helpful tools like a step stool for toddler potty training.
FAQs About Potty Training Books
Starting early with the best potty training books for toddlers can help spark interest and excitement about using the potty independently.
When should I start reading potty training books to my toddler?
Start introducing them around 18–24 months when your child begins showing signs of potty readiness (staying dry longer, interest in the bathroom, etc.).
Should I read the same potty book every day?
Yes! Repetition builds familiarity and comfort. Rotate a few favorites but keep a consistent potty theme daily.
What’s the best potty training book for a resistant toddler?
Potty” by Leslie Patricelli or “Potty Superhero” by Mabel Forsyth are excellent for encouraging reluctant kids without pressure.
Do potty training books really help with success?
Absolutely! They reinforce the message in a fun, non-stressful way and create positive associations with the potty process.
Are there potty training books for parents too?
Yes! One helpful guide is “Oh Crap! Potty Training” by Jamie Glowacki — it’s a practical, no-nonsense manual for parents.
Final Thoughts on the Best Potty Training Books for Toddlers
Potty training can feel overwhelming, but having the right tools — like a great potty training book — makes a huge difference. Whether you choose a funny, interactive story or a reassuring guide, introducing potty training books early helps toddlers feel more confident and excited about this big milestone.
Take your time, follow your child’s pace, and use these potty training books as a fun, supportive way to start the journey.
📌 Save This Potty Training Milestone Timeline!
Love this simple timeline?
Pin it now to your parenting board so you can come back to it anytime during your potty training journey! 🚽⭐
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