Ask Dr. Mona

Nighttime potty training takes a different approach than daytime training because it depends on the body’s ability to stay dry while asleep. Most children don’t achieve consistent nighttime dryness until after age 5, and some even later. Since your little one is 3 and not waking up with a dry diaper yet, that’s a sign her body may not be fully ready to hold it overnight– and that’s very common.

You might consider starting nighttime training if:

• She is daytime trained with infrequent accidents and waking up dry at least 5 out of 7 nights a week.

• She hasn’t had overnight poop accidents for months

• She is over 5 years old and daytime trained

• You prefer to train days and nights together for personal reasons

If she’s not quite there yet, here are some tips for preparing:

• No rush, no pressure: Continue using pull-ups at night until you notice at least 10 consecutive dry mornings. Switching to underwear too soon won’t make the process faster.

• Limit liquids after dinner: You don’t have to stop water at 6 pm, but reducing large drinks in the evening can help. Offer fluids earlier in the day.

• Bedtime potty routine: A bathroom visit right before bed, paired with gentle encouragement, like, “Great job using the toilet, let’s keep your pull-up dry tonight!” can help build awareness.

• Prep for accidents: Waterproof mattress protectors (or layering two sets of sheets and protectors) can make cleanups easier.

• Encouragement, without shame: If she wakes up wet, keep it neutral, “Oops, let’s clean up and try again next time!” If she wakes up dry, celebrate with a high-five or hug!

Some parents try waking their child for a nighttime potty trip, but if she’s a deep sleeper or struggles to fall back asleep, it may not be worth it. Ultimately, nighttime dryness happens when her body is ready. She’ll get there in her own time!

Potty training doesn’t have to be stressful! The PedsDocTalk No-Pressure Potty Training Course walks you through every step—daytime, nighttime, and everything in between—so you can support your child with calm and confidence.

It’s common for babies to fuss during tummy time at first– so you’re not alone in experiencing this! It’s a brand new skill, and like any workout, it takes practice. The key is building up tolerance little by little while keeping it engaging and positive.

Here are some tips to try to make tummy time more enjoyable:

• Start small and build up– Even 10 seconds at a time is a win! Gradually increase the duration each session. The more consistent you are, the easier it gets.

• Change up the position– Tummy time doesn’t have to be just on the floor. Try:

  • On your chest while you recline (babies love looking at your face)

  • Over a rolled-up towel or boppy pillow to give extra support

  • Rolling baby onto their tummy, so they can feel the motion. This can help with rolling development too. You can do this after diaper changes.

• Use toys and mirrors– Place a favorite toy, musical instrument, or baby-safe mirror nearby to encourage head movement and engagement.

• Make it interactive– Get down on their level, talk, sing, and be their cheerleader. You can lay with them, count playfully, rub their back, and reassure them, “I know this is hard, but you are so strong!”

• Avoid right after feeding– Tummy time too soon after eating can lead to spit-up, so aim for wake windows when they’re more comfortable.

• Stay consistent and keep it positive– Some fussing is okay. It doesn’t mean they’re in pain, just that they’re working hard. If they’re really upset, scoop them up for cuddles and try again later.

Tummy time isn’t about hitting a perfect goal every day– it’s about practice, consistency, and making it part of the daily routine. Stick with it, and over time, your baby will learn to enjoy it more.

Have more questions about newborn care, sleep, feeding, or baby milestones? The New Mom’s Survival Guide is your go-to resource for everything in the first year! Plus access to an online community!

Ask Dr. Mona

Ask Dr. Mona all your parenting questions!

Dr. Mona will answer these questions in a future Sunday Morning Q&A email. Chances are if you have a parenting concern or question, another parent can relate. So let's figure this out together!