Should You Hire a Potty Training Consultant? Here's the Honest Answer.

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When we first started The Potty School in 2016, we did something that seemed obvious at the time: we went into families' homes and potty trained their children for them.

It worked. The kids trained. Parents were thrilled. We packed up and left.

And then, about three weeks later, the calls started. She was doing great but now she's regressing. He won't go for anyone but you. I don't know what to do when she holds it.

We had trained the child. We hadn't trained the parent. And the moment we walked out the door, the family didn't have the tools to hold what we'd built.

We changed our entire model after that. Now, every consultation we do — in-home or virtual — is designed to train the parent and the child at the same time. You leave knowing what to do, why it works, and what to do next when things get bumpy. Because they will, and that's normal, and you should know how to handle it.

I tell that story because it's the most honest answer to the question: Is hiring a potty training consultant worth it?

It depends entirely on who you hire and what they're actually teaching.

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What a Potty Training Consultant Actually Does

A good potty training consultant doesn't just show up with a method and a sticker chart.

We assess your child — their age, developmental stage, sensory profile, communication ability, and history with the potty. We assess you — your schedule, your confidence level, your consistency, what's already been tried, what made it worse. And then we build a plan that fits your family, not a template we hand to everyone.

The Potty School serves three populations: babies and toddlers through elimination communication (birth to 17 months), children 18 months to 7 years through standard potty training, and children with special needs from birth to 14 through our special needs potty training services. Each is different. Each requires a different approach.

What doesn't change: you leave with a plan, the skills to execute it, and follow-up support so you're not on your own the moment things get hard.

The Real Pros of Hiring Professional Help

You stop guessing. Most potty training frustration comes from trying three different things in three weeks and not knowing which one was working, or why. A consultant helps you pick a lane and stay in it long enough to see results.

Someone has seen this before. Whatever is happening with your child — the withholding, the refusal, the fear of the flush, the regression after a new sibling — we've seen it. A lot. The solution isn't a mystery; it just requires someone who knows what questions to ask.

You save time. The average family who reaches out to us has been "working on" potty training for four to eight months. That's four to eight months of diapers (roughly $80–$150/month), four to eight months of accidents, and four to eight months of a daily frustration that doesn't have to be daily. A focused consultation, done right, is almost always faster than months of trial and error.

You get someone in your corner. One of the things parents tell us most often after a consultation: I didn't realize how much I needed someone to just tell me what to do with confidence. Parenting is full of conflicting advice. Having a clear plan, from someone who does this every day, matters more than it sounds.

The Real Cons (Yes, There Are Some)

Cost is a real factor. In-home consultations are an investment. We don't pretend otherwise. If a home consultation isn't in the budget right now, our Diapers to Flush membership and virtual consultations exist precisely for that reason — professional guidance at a lower price point. And our book is the lowest-barrier entry point if you want to try the self-guided approach first.

You have to do the follow-through. A consultation is not a magic wand. We give you the tools; you have to use them. Consistently. Across every caregiver in your child's life. If that consistency isn't there after we leave, the progress won't hold — and that's true no matter how good the consultant is.

Not every consultant is the same. This industry isn't licensed or regulated. Anyone can call themselves a potty training consultant. At The Potty School, our consultants are trained, background-checked, and work within our methodology. But if you're looking elsewhere, ask questions. (More on that below.)

How to Know If You're Ready for a Consultation

At The Potty School, we believe that if the parent is ready, the child is ready. We have methods for a wide range of ages and abilities; we don't need your child to hit a checklist of readiness signs first.

What we do need is a parent who is ready to commit to a process — ready to be consistent, ready to follow through, and ready to be honest with us about what's been tried before and what hasn't worked.

Not sure where you stand? Take our readiness quiz — it's designed for parents and caregivers, not just kids.

Questions Worth Asking Before You Hire Anyone

Whether you're considering The Potty School or anyone else, here's what to ask:

What is your training and background? What does your process look like during and after the consultation? Do you train the parent, the child, or both? What happens when things don't go as planned — do you offer follow-up support? Have you worked with children like mine (age, special needs, specific challenges)?

If the answers are vague, that's information.

What Parents Have Said

"Our consultation was great. We talked through the details of the obstacle our son was running into with using the potty. We implemented the recommended changes right away and the improvement was almost instant. It was so helpful to talk with someone who is so experienced and was interested in our son's specific situation." — Kristina, mother

"They were so knowledgeable and encouraging. They gave excellent advice. We did not feel judged at all." — Mary & Carl, mom and dad

"[Our consultant] has been very kind and thoughtful with all of her ideas. As my son is challenging with his behaviors she continues to think of new things that may help us on our journey." — Kelly, mother of a child with special needs

Alternatives If a Consultation Isn't Right for You Yet

If you want professional guidance without a full consultation, there are a few options:

The book: The Complete Guide to Potty Training by Michelle D. Swaney — the self-guided foundation.

The membership: Diapers to Flush — a structured 5-stage program with videos, audio, transcripts, printables, and a searchable content library. Built for families who want a step-by-step path without feeling overwhelmed.

Virtual consultation: All the expertise of an in-home visit, over Zoom or phone. The limitation is that you don't have someone physically present to demonstrate and course-correct in real time — but for many families, virtual is exactly enough.

Ready to Find Out If We're the Right Fit?

Book a 15-minute Q7Acall here — no pressure, ask the questions you want. If you book, we deduct it from your consult investment. We want to make sure we're actually the right next step for your family before we commit to anything.

You can do this. And if you want company while you do — we'd love to be it.

~ Michelle, of The Potty School

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The Importance of Potty Training in Your Own Home

You’ve heard it before: potty training is a significant milestone in a child's development. It marks the transition from diapers to using the toilet independently, promoting their overall growth and independence. According to Stanford Medicine Children’s Health “Toilet training is teaching your child to recognize their body signals for urinating and having a bowel movement. It also means teaching yoru child to use a potty chair or toilet correctly and at the appropriate times.” 

When your child is potty trained it can save you time, money (allllll those diapers and wipes) and frustration in the long run. It also allows for “I can” moments that parents get to witness and be a part of, which boosts their self-esteem and confidence, setting the stage for further learning and achievement.

Pros of Hiring a Potty Training Specialist to Come to Your Home

1. Expertise and Experience: One of the significant advantages of hiring a professional potty trainer is our expertise and experience in the field. We have helped numerous children navigate through this process, giving us valuable insights and strategies to ensure success. With our guidance, you can benefit from a personalized plan tailored to your child's specific needs and personality, making the process more efficient and effective.

2. Effective Techniques and Tips: As professional potty trainers we have a repertoire of effective techniques and tips to overcome common challenges that arise during potty training. We move beyond putting “aiming” Cheerios in the toilet and giving out M&Ms or stickers for treats. We understand that every child is unique and may respond differently to various approaches so we are trained, and experienced in pivoting. By leveraging our knowledge, we can provide you with practical strategies to address specific concerns, such as fear of the toilet or resistance to using it consistently.

3. Accelerated Progress: With one of The Potty School’s professional potty trainers by your side, you can expect accelerated progress in your child's potty training journey. Our expertise allows us to identify and address any underlying issues or obstacles that may be hindering your child's progress. By providing targeted guidance and support, we can help your child grasp the concepts and skills needed for successful potty training more quickly.

Cons of Hiring a Potty Training Consultant to Come to Your Home

1. Cost Considerations: One of the main drawbacks of hiring a professional potty trainer is the associated cost. Professional services can be a significant investment, and it's essential to consider whether it fits within your budget. However, it's important to remember that the cost can vary depending on factors such as location, the trainer's experience, and the duration of the training program. You may need to weigh the financial implications against the potential benefits and your own comfort level. Also, you should value it against how much you are currently paying (probably $80- $150 per month on diapers and wipes at this point) and the hassle and even environmental burden because of diapering.

2. Dependency on Outside Help: Another concern some families may have is the potential dependency on outside help when relying on a professional potty trainer. While the trainer can provide invaluable guidance and support, there is a risk that parents may become reliant on their expertise and not develop their own skills to handle future challenges. It's crucial to strike a balance between seeking professional help and fostering your own confidence and abilities as a parent. As stated before, that is something we learned right quick when we started this business - that our business is the parent, and the child, not the other way around. We need you the parent to feel confident and like you know what to do as well as the child.

3. Personalized Approach: While professional potty trainers can offer personalized plans, there is still the possibility that their strategies may not align perfectly with your child's unique personality or needs. But, that is why we take the time to have an initial call before we even do our initial in-take questionnaire and why we do that in-take questionnaire ahead of the consultation so our consultants have time to prepare. It's essential to communicate openly with the trainer and ensure that their approach resonates with your parenting style and values. This way, you can create a collaborative partnership that helps the potty training consultant really get to know your family well so that the methods hey choose will be most successful for your family.

Not sure if home potty training is right for you? Tke this quick quiz to help you decide: 

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Are you wanting to have a potty trained child by the start of school, but feeling overwhelmed by the process? That’s why The Potty School exists: we help parents and caregivers potty train their children (both special needs and neuro-typical). Hiring a professional potty trainer for your child at home can be a game-changer.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of asking for (and getting) the help of a professional to guide you through this process because let’s be real celebrating a potty trained child is a lot more fun than cleaning up pees and poos for months on end - or getting called to pick up you child who made a mess at school.

A professional potty trainer brings expertise and experience to the table. They are able to create personalized plan to fit your child's specific needs and personality, making the process more efficient and effective.

It’s not a 1-year plan: it’s a what can we do today, tomorrow and how you can follow-up for the next two weeks. They can also provide valuable tips and techniques to overcome common challenges and expedite the progress.

However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The cost of hiring a professional can be a  surprising investment. Though investing in a professional potty trainer is an investment, so is diapering and that’s probably been happening for years being deemed a “normal” monthly expense. 

Also, some families may worry about relying too much on outside help and not learning the skills to handle future challenges with their own child.

When we first started, in 2016, we used to “potty train for you” in people’s homes. We quickly learned that that wasn’t a sustainable method for parents long-term. Now, our consultants are trained to train you (and your child) simultaneously so that you both know the expectations when the consultant departs your home. 

We understand that the decision to hire a professional potty trainer for your child at home is a personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice that lines up with your values, goals and parenting preferences. So, let's jump in and explore this toilet-training journey together.

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Factors to Consider Before Hiring a Potty Training Consultant or Professional Potty Trainer

Before making a decision to hire a potty training consultant, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Readiness of Your Child: Assess your child's readiness for potty training. Or not. At The Potty School we believe that if the parents are ready, the child is ready. They mostly just need a loving adult to help guide and train them and we’re equipped with various methods to help. We teach Elimination Communication, Potty Training and Special Needs Potty Training, which we call Sensory-Based Elimination. Commonly the “signs” potty trainers request are things like showing interest in the bathroom, staying dry for more extended periods, or expressing discomfort with soiled diapers. But, those are teachable “signs”. 

2. Time and Availability: Reflect on your own schedule and availability. Potty training requires follow-up after the potty training home consultation. Consider whether you have the time and energy to devote to the process, as well as the ability to maintain a routine and follow through with the strategies provided by a professional potty trainer. But, also remember that the “time” and “energy” will now be trained so you won’t be shooting from the hip after your consultant leaves, you’ll have an example of what it looks like.

3. Personal Comfort Level: Evaluate your comfort level with seeking outside help for potty training. Some parents may feel confident in their own abilities and prefer to tackle the task independently, but those parents probably aren’t reading this article. Others may feel overwhelmed or unsure and see the value in enlisting the help of a professional. It's essential to prioritize your own comfort and confidence in making this decision. It’s a risk to have a complete stranger in your home, we understand that. But, this isn’t the only profession where professionals come directly into the home - think of situations like home care aides, or home nursing help, or occupational therapy or speech therapy. All of those professionals are background checked and trained - just like potty training consultants at The Potty School are as well.

4. Budget: Consider your budget and financial resources. Hiring a professional potty trainer comes with a cost, and it's important to assess whether it aligns with your financial situation. If you have access to an Air B&B or a guest area, let your consultant know as that may give you some leverage to negotiate costs. Explore different options and price ranges to find a balance between affordability and quality of service.

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Alternative Methods for Potty Training at Home

While hiring a professional potty trainer is one approach to potty training, there are alternative methods you can consider:

1. Self-Guided Approach: Some parents may choose to take a self-guided approach to potty training, relying on books, online resources, and their own instincts. This method allows for flexibility and can be tailored to fit your child's unique needs. However, it requires thorough research and a willingness to adapt as you go. We’d recommend starting with The Complete Guide to Potty Training by The Potty School’s CEO, Michelle D. Swaney.

2. Peer Support: Engaging with other parents who are going through or have gone through potty training can provide valuable insights and support. Joining parenting groups or online communities can connect you with a network of individuals who can offer advice, encouragement, and shared experiences. We have some free support groups on Facebook where you can get input from people with a plethora of opposing opinions about what they think and don’t think is helpful and can give input on what you’ve wanting to try. This is great for someone who enjoys diving into a wealth of information and sifting through what may be helpful for their particular situation, on their own. Facebook Group here or here.

3. Potty Training Course or Potty Training Membership or Potty Training Class: This is a great option for families who don’t have children with special needs or unique situations. This gives general advice, and enough solution ideas that you can navigate a few options on your own without feeling the overwhelm of 12 options. The Potty School’s course/membership guides you along on a 5-step success path so you won’t be overwhelmed with too many options and will be provided with resources to help you reach the inchstones within each milestone - including printables, mini-series, checklists,etc. This is a great method for those on-the-go because the modality can be anything from videos, to audio to transcripts to even searchable fields that search all of the data in order to help you find info in the modality of your choice about particular keywords or topics. You can even bring core content with you via podcast. Check-out The Potty School’s Course: Diapers–to-Flush here. 

1. ‍Gradual Transition: Instead of diving straight into potty training, some families opt for a gradual transition. This can involve introducing the concept of using the toilet gradually, such as starting with sitting fully clothed, then moving to sitting on the toilet with a diaper, and eventually transitioning to using the toilet without a diaper.‍
2. Personalized Help, but not in the home: Seeking potty training consultant could also mean that you seek personalized advice, but you try it on your own. We provide services via phone, Zoom and even virtual home consultations. This is an option for families that want to combine professional help with a do-it-yourself mentality. The drawback of this service is that you don’t have an in-person example to follow or hours-worth of back and forth conversations and questions being asked.

How to Choose the Right Potty Training Consultant

When selecting a potty training specialist, keep the following considerations in mind:

1. Qualifications and Experience: Look for trainers who have relevant qualifications and experience in potty training. Consider their training methods, success rates, and testimonials from previous clients. A trainer who specializes in potty training and has a track record of success can provide reassurance and confidence in their abilities. This is what our in initial 15-minute calls are for. [LINK TO HOME CONSULT CALLS HERE]

2. Compatibility and Communication: It's essential to find a potty training specialist who aligns with your parenting style and values. Schedule a consultation or interview to gauge their compatibility and ensure that you can communicate effectively. A trainer who listens, understands, and respects your concerns and preferences will facilitate a collaborative and positive learning environment for your child.

3. Availability and Flexibility: Consider the trainer's availability and flexibility in accommodating your schedule. Potty training requires consistency, and having a trainer who can work with your timetable can greatly enhance the process. Remember that summer months can fill-up quickly and that many  families wait until August to schedule only to be scheduled a month or more out.

4. Approach and Philosophy: Discuss the trainer's approach and philosophy regarding potty training. And, then ask if they are flexible to accommodate the needs of your family into “their” approach. Ensure that their methods align with your preferences and goals. Some potty training specialists may adopt a more structured and intensive approach, while others may focus on a gentler, child-led method. Choose a trainer whose approach resonates with you and your child's needs.

Questions to Ask a Potty Training Consultant Before Hiring

To ensure you find the right professional potty trainer for your child, consider asking the following questions during the interview or consultation:

1. What is your experience with potty training?
2. What is your success rate with previous clients?
3. What is your approach to potty training?
4. How do you handle challenges or setbacks during the process?
5. How do you tailor your approach to fit each child's unique needs?
6. What strategies do you use to motivate and encourage children during potty training?
7. How do you involve parents in the process and provide ongoing support?
8. What is your availability and flexibility in accommodating our schedule?

Cost Considerations of Hiring a Potty Training Consultant

The cost of hiring a professional potty trainer can vary depending on several factors, including geographic location, the trainer's experience and qualifications, and the duration and intensity of the training program. It's essential to research and compare different options to find a trainer whose fees align with your budget. Remember to consider the potential long-term savings in diapers and the time and stress that can be saved by investing in professional help.

Testimonials and Success Stories from Parents Who Hired Professional Potty Trainers

Hearing from parents who have experienced the benefits of hiring a professional potty trainer can provide valuable insights and reassurance. Here are a few testimonials and success stories:

1. "[The Potty School Potty Training Consultant] has been very kind and thoughtful with all of her ideas.  As my son is challenging with his behaviors she continues to think of new things that may help us on our journey to use the potty successfully!" - Kelly, Mother of Child with Special Needs

2. "Our consultation was great. We talked through the details of the obstacle our son was running into with using the potty. We implemented the recommended changes right away and the improvement was almost instant. It was so helpful to talk with someone who is so experienced and was interested in our son's specific situation." - Kristina, mother

3. "They were so knowledgeable and encouraging. They gave excellent advice. We did not feel judged at all."  - Mary & Carl, mom and dad

Conclusion: Weighing the Options and Making the Best Decision for Your Child

The decision to hire a potty training consultant for your child at home is a personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering alternative methods, and evaluating your own readiness and resources, you can make an informed choice that matches up with your values,  goals & parenting philosophy. We know that every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be open to adapting your approach and seeking the support you need to ensure a successful potty training journey for your child. We would love the opportunity to serve your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main pros of hiring a professional potty trainer?

Hiring a professional brings specialized experience to handle stubborn regressions, provides a customized strategy tailored to your child's specific behavioral needs, and significantly reduces parental stress while shortening the overall training timeline.

What are the potential cons of hiring a professional potty trainer?

The primary downsides include the financial investment required for dedicated coaching, and the risk that a child might only cooperate with the trainer if the service focuses on training the child directly rather than empowering the parent to maintain the routine.

Is it genuinely worth it to pay someone to potty train my child?

Yes, especially for families who have experienced multiple failed attempts, face deep-seated resistance, or are navigating special developmental needs. A specialized consultant provides an objective roadmap and real-time coaching to confidently break through progress plateaus.

Do professional potty training consultants provide in-home or virtual services?

Many professional services offer both. For instance, The Potty School provides fully immersive in-home support traveling across the continental United States, alongside comprehensive virtual and phone consultation packages accessible to families globally.

Top rated potty training consultant for toddlers?

The Potty School is rated highly across all the segments of potty training, neuro-typical (no special needs), special needs and elimination communication. See our ratings at Google.

Who is the best potty training consultant near me?

The Potty School's potty training consultants are available throughout the United States, and on a case-by-case basis, internationally. We have thousands of consults over our decade of experience and bring the best potty training consutlant near you, to your doorstep. Though you can book with the closest consultant, we advise booking with the consultant who best matches your experience over proximity. They will come to you either way, so may as well get the most trained professional we have to offer come to you.

Cost of hiring a potty training coach?

If you are looking for a one-time 45-minute check-in call, we offer that for $282. if you are looking for a more intensive come-to-my-house-and-help-me-potty-train-my-child, which includes consultant travel, we offer that for $3,750 for one-day and for $5,250 for two days. You can book here. We also offer a more DIY product which is a month-by-month membership, called Diapers-to-Flush, which is $45/mo., less than a month's worth of diapers and wipes!

Find local potty training experts near me?

We are your potty training experts. We come to you! Whether that's a phone or Zoom call, or showing up on your doorstep. In this globalized world, "near me" is only as relevant as your access to the internet. We will travel to you, all over the United States, though there is a surcharge for non-continental United States. If you want a potty training expert near you to come and help, it's as simple as contacting us and telling us you want us to show up in your town, on your doorstep!

Affordable potty training consultant options in my area?

A "bargain" potty training consultant is a like a bargain diaper. You get what you pay for. If you'd like a potty training consultant who isn't background checked, or trained, has no one holding them accountable, may or may not pay taxes, and almost assuredly doesn't have insurance - then look for the cheap local option at your daycare, or local college nanny group. But, if you're looking for a nationally recognized brand that not only has potty training experience with families but also is the agency to train other organizations such as school districts, special needs organizations, childcare development centers, consults with hospitals, etc., then choose The Potty School They stand above the crowd and are worth the investment to pick a reliable, time-tested, and established potty training consultant agency versus a one-off consultant who max has helped a dozen children. We have served thousands.

What services do potty training consultants offer?

Depending on the type of potty training consultant you hire, services range from coaching the coach to wiping a child's bottom for you. At The Potty School we have a hands-off policy. We believe that teaching your child that it's okay for a complete strange who comes and goes from their life in 2-days to be up and close to their privates in unacceptable. In fact, we have a hands-on-your-head policy if a parent or guardian leaves the room during home consults. That said, we do a walkthrough of the child's spaces, including the bathroom, upon arrival. We talk through with parents what their experiences have been thus far and what they hope to gain from this experience. Then we observe, with our wealth of previous observations, to come up with next steps so that potty training can go from argument to action, from pee on the floor to pee in the potty, all while positioning the parent as the sole leader in the process.

What does a professional potty training service include?

For home visits you should have the chance to talk to someone, ideally your actual consultant, before they step foot in your home. You should know that they are background checked and insured (by a reputable company). If they are offering to wipe your child in the privacy of your home, they are probably not properly insured. Services can include both daytime and overnight. A consultant who offers both day and night services above 8-12 hours in a 24-hour period is probably more likely to be going for a money grab than really being able to serve your family well. A sleep deprived consultant who stays up all night with your child won't be very useful the next day during the daytime, when most accidents happen. That said, services include a proper in-take process, a meet & greet with your consultant (virtually works), a schedule ahead time, a chance to ask questions in real-time during your consultation, a friendly disposition, an ability to engage your child and to advise you. You should also have the opportunity to give feedback once your experience is over and ask a quick follow-up question or two once done.

How to choose a potty training consultant service?

First of all, make sure they are willing to work with your family. A surcharge for your child having special needs is unethical, so avoid that, even if your child doesn't have special needs. Check for the ages they work with. The Potty School works with ages 0 - 22 years old, though we only work with certain case-by-case families with children ages 14 years - 22 years. Typically, elimination communication is from birth to ages 15 - 18 months. Neuro-typical potty training is approximately ages 12 months - 5 or 7 years, and then special needs should be from as early as birth, all the way to the age you need for a minor (or non-emancipated youth, or someone who is still under the legal authority of a guardian). That said, you want to learn if they follow a specific "method" or evidence-based philosophy, or if they are willing to entertain all of the options that may help your family meet your definition of potty training success. Personal recommendations go incredibly far in a world that can sometimes feel virtually connected and disconnected at the same time. If you know someone who had a great experience with a potty training consulting service, that might be the best way to go, whether it's a phone/Zoom or in-home potty training consulting.

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Have questions about hiring a Potty Training Consultant at The Potty School? Contact us below.

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