Learn how to build trust and be prepared to guide children through self-soothing and potty training with Sam Squibb.

In this episode of The Heartfelt Way, Sam Squibb, a Heartfelt preschool teacher and mom, joins host Rhonda Meyers to share insights into self-soothing and potty training. Sam stresses that these important developmental milestones are opportunities to help children build trust and communication skills. 

Sam reflects on how children communicate their needs long before they can articulate them. She advocates for offering acceptable alternatives to children when pacifier training to help them learn to self-regulate rather than just comply.

Sam and Rhonda walk through the realities of potty training: readiness cues, accidents, regressions and the importance of removing shame from the process. 

Potty training success comes from honest communication with families, realistic expectations and preparation on both sides of the classroom door.

[00:08:44] “Accidents are going to happen. Expect success with a mess.”

Knowing there will be an inevitable mess, Sam emphasizes that it’s important to go all-in on potty training.

[00:00:00] “I am a firm believer [that] once you start potty training, you ditch the diaper. You can wear it for nap time and wear it for bedtime.”

Children know accidents are meant for diapers. Sam explains that when children have accidents in underwear, they feel an uncomfortable sensation that teaches them to know when they need the bathroom.

Sam offers practical potty training guidance in this conversation, from clothing choices to timing and motivation, and reminds parents and educators alike that progress isn’t linear—and it’s ok to make mistakes and try again.

Everyday Learning at Home: Potty Training, Pacifiers, and Play

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