By Lauren Mahesri, RD, LDN.
Research shows that consistent reinforcement with something a child enjoys can help positively reinforce potty training. This can be food, toys, or verbal praise, but it needs to be consistent and something your child is actually interested in. If that means a sweet treat they don't often get or a food you wouldn't normally serve, that's completely fine.
The other way to use food during potty training is to help kids stay on the toilet, which is one of the bigger learning curves of the process. Foods that require a bit of activity work well here because they keep little hands busy and take the pressure off.
With both of these strategies in mind, these are my top three potty training snacks as a mom and pediatric dietitian:
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Freeze dried fruit: This works well in place of candy, especially if it's a fruit your child hasn't tried before and feels "special." Freeze dried dragon fruit or pineapple are great options here because the novelty makes them feel like a treat.
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Clementines: These are a great activity food to keep your child on the toilet. Teach them how to peel it, turn it into a game. The process itself keeps them sitting longer without it feeling forced.
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Edamame: Another great option for keeping kids busy on the toilet. Most kids love popping the beans out of the pod, and it gives them something to focus on while they sit.
