Oh Crap! Potty Training by Jamie Glowacki Summary

Oh Crap! Potty Training provides a structured, six-step method to toilet train children aged 20–30 months efficiently, often within days. Jamie Glowacki, a parenting expert, emphasizes ditching diapers cold turkey, using observational cues, and avoiding prolonged encouragement. The book tackles common hurdles like poop refusal, regressions, and nighttime training, blending humor with actionable strategies.

Parents and caregivers of toddlers aged 18–36 months seeking a straightforward, no-gimmick approach will benefit most. It’s ideal for those overwhelmed by inconsistent advice or struggling with resistance, power struggles, or daycare coordination. Glowacki’s method suits families ready to commit to a focused, diaper-free start.

Yes—it’s widely praised for its practicality and success rate. Parents report faster results compared to gradual methods, with many achieving daytime training in 3–7 days. The book’s troubleshooting sections for setbacks and developmental nuances add long-term value, making it a trusted reference.

Glowacki advocates starting between 20–30 months, arguing this “sweet spot” aligns with toddlers’ natural readiness before stubbornness peaks. Early starters (under 24 months) may need more time, while older toddlers (30+ months) often require tailored tactics to overcome resistance.

The book advises staying calm, avoiding pressure, and using dietary adjustments or relaxed postures. Glowacki suggests framing poop as a separate skill from peeing and addressing anxiety through play (e.g., diaper-free time post-meals). Persistent cases may require pausing training briefly.

1. Block 1: Naked observation to learn cues.
2. Block 2: Add loose pants, no underwear.
3. Block 3: Introduce short outings.
4. Block 4: Master public restrooms.
5. Blocks 5–6: Nighttime and consistency.

Progression depends on mastery, not fixed timelines.

Yes, but adjustments are needed. Glowacki recommends acknowledging the child’s autonomy, using collaborative language (“Let’s try”), and addressing entrenched habits. Older toddlers may require more patience and creative motivation (e.g., sticker charts).

The book separates daytime and nighttime training, advising parents to wait until the child wakes dry consistently. It discourages nighttime diapers once training begins, instead using waterproof mattress covers and limiting liquids before bed.

Unlike reward-heavy or gradual approaches, Glowacki’s method prioritizes parental consistency, observational learning, and minimizing prolonged transitions (e.g., pull-ups). It rejects “wait for readiness” philosophies, advocating proactive coaching.

Some parents find the approach too rigid or stressful for strong-willed toddlers. Critics argue its success depends heavily on parental stamina and may not suit all family dynamics. Glowacki addresses these concerns in her podcast and revised editions.

Regressions are framed as normal. Solutions include revisiting basics (e.g., naked time), reducing pressure, and checking for external stressors (new sibling, daycare changes). The book emphasizes maintaining a neutral, problem-solving tone.

Consistency across caregivers is critical. Glowacki provides scripts for aligning with daycare providers, such as avoiding diapers during transitions and using uniform terminology. The book includes tips for managing grandparent or babysaker resistance.