Is it better to use potty seat or potty chair?

Answered by Michael Wilson

In my experience as a parent and from working with many toddlers, I have found that the choice between using a potty seat or a potty chair depends on the age and preference of the child.

For toddlers who are less than two years old or around 2 ¼ years old, I have found that they tend to prefer using a potty chair. The potty chair is a small, standalone seat that is low to the ground and designed specifically for young children. It provides a sense of security and independence for toddlers as they can easily sit on it without assistance.

Younger toddlers may feel more comfortable and confident using a potty chair because it is their own special seat that is just the right size for them. It can also be more visually appealing to them with fun designs or colors, which can help make the potty training process more exciting.

On the other hand, children who are over 2 ¼ or 2 ½ years old may be more willing to use the regular toilet with a potty seat. A potty seat is a smaller seat that fits onto the regular toilet seat, making it more comfortable and secure for young children. It allows them to feel like a “big kid” by using the same toilet as their parents or older siblings.

Using a potty seat can also be more convenient for parents, as they don’t have to clean and empty a separate potty chair. It can also help with the transition from using a potty chair to using the regular toilet, as children become more familiar with the concept of sitting on the toilet.

Ultimately, the choice between a potty seat and a potty chair should be based on the comfort and preference of the child. It is important to try both options and let the child decide which one they feel more comfortable using. Some children may prefer the familiarity and independence of a potty chair, while others may be more open to using a potty seat on the regular toilet.

In my personal experience, my child initially preferred using a potty chair when we started potty training. The small size and colorful design of the potty chair caught her attention and made her feel more secure. However, as she grew older and saw her older siblings using the regular toilet, she expressed interest in using a potty seat. We gave her the option to try both, and she eventually transitioned to using the potty seat on the regular toilet without any issues.

To summarize, it is best to let the child guide the decision between using a potty seat or a potty chair. Younger toddlers may feel more comfortable using a potty chair, while older toddlers may be more open to using a potty seat on the regular toilet. It is important to provide options and support the child’s choice to make the potty training process more comfortable and enjoyable for them.