Guide · Potty training

8 potty training books that actually work.

Handpicked kids' books that introduce the potty, normalize pooping and build autonomy — sorted by age with a summary, highlight and practical tips on how to use them.

Picks by age

01

Everyone Poops

by Taro Gomi
ages 2-5

Classic that normalizes pooping by showing how every animal does it. Gentle language, simple art and lots of humor.

Breaks the poop taboo — perfect for kids who hold it in.

02

Potty

by Leslie Patricelli
ages 1-3

Short board book that introduces the potty in a playful, rhythmic way. Great to build familiarity before training begins.

Short text — repeated reading works really well.

03

P is for Potty!

by Sesame Street / Naomi Kleinberg
18 months - 3 years

Sturdy lift-the-flap board book with big illustrations. Walks through pulling down pants, sitting, flushing and washing hands.

Durable — perfect for a child to flip through alone in the bathroom.

04

Potty Superhero

by Mick Manning
ages 2-4

A boy discovers the potty and becomes a hero, with warm illustrations. Helps boys identify with the process.

Especially good for boys who are resisting.

05

Princess Potty

by Samantha Berger
ages 2-4

Playful spin for kids who love princess stories. Shows that using the potty is a grown-up thing to do.

Pairs really well with dress-up and enthusiastic praise.

06

The Gas We Pass

by Shinta Cho
ages 2-5

Approaches gas and poop with humor, lowering tension around the topic. Kids love it and ask for re-reads.

Guaranteed giggles — useful during frustrating moments.

07

My Big Boy / Big Girl Potty

by Joanna Cole
12-30 months

Real-life scenes of toddlers discovering the potty. Available in boy and girl editions.

Great to introduce the topic very early.

08

I Can Go to the Potty

by Growing Up Series
ages 2-4

Focuses on autonomy: the child manages the whole trip — pants down, sit, flush — on their own. Reinforces pride.

Use once the basics are mastered and confidence is growing.

How to use these books during potty training

  • Read the book 2 to 4 weeks before starting potty training — so the topic feels familiar.
  • Reread the same story many times. Repetition is what builds confidence at this age.
  • Keep one or two potty books in the bathroom as bathroom-only reading.
  • Point at scenes: “Look, he sat on the potty just like you did yesterday!”
  • Bring in toys: have the character in the story “use” the potty alongside your child.
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