Potty training is a big milestone—and not just for your toddler’s independence. It’s also a golden opportunity to foster early literacy. By incorporating books into this everyday routine, you’re helping your child build vocabulary, engage with stories, and develop confidence as both a potty-user and a budding reader. As I prepare to potty train my second child, these are the books I am turning toward to (hopefully) make things easier!
Here are five picture books and guides that work double duty: easing the transition out of diapers and laying a strong foundation for literacy and loving to read.
1. Oh Crap! Potty Training by Jamie Glowacki
Literacy for the Grown-Ups Potty training isn’t a DIY project. Us parents need all the support we can get! Glowacki delivers it with so much humor and much-needed clarity. While this book is aimed at adults, it models how language—spoken clearly and consistently—can empower kids to communicate their needs. Glowacki also encourages parents to narrate the potty process, which helps toddlers learn new words and make sense of routines.
2. Potty by Leslie Patricelli
Playful Language and Predictable Text This toddler favorite pairs expressive illustrations with simple, repetitive text. It’s a perfect example of how board books can support emerging readers: “Uh-oh…Potty?” Patricelli’s use of rhythm and pattern makes it easy for toddlers to anticipate what comes next—an important pre-reading skill.
3. Ready to Go: Pee by Lovevery
Real-Life Vocabulary and Visual Literacy This nonfiction-style photo book helps toddlers connect real-world images to specific potty-related actions. It includes child-centered language like “tummy feels full” and “pee comes out.” Visual literacy—the ability to interpret and learn from pictures—is nurtured here through relatable characters and clear photographic sequences.
4. Ready to Go: Poop by Lovevery
Encouraging Emotional and Language Development This companion book goes deeper into the emotional side of potty training, using phrases like “I feel proud” and “I did it!” These affirmations not only support emotional intelligence but also expand your child’s expressive vocabulary. Plus, repeating key phrases across readings strengthens word recognition.
Click the links above to shop on Amazon, or join Lovevery’s Early Reader Club to access these and other “Tricky Topics” books by Lovevery.
5. My Big Book of Happy Sounds – Entertainment while sitting on the potty
One of the big challenges when potty training is helping a child to sit on the potty long enough to actually go. Books are the most helpful tool to make this happen. A favorite that has withstood the test of time and is also engaging enough to pull them in each time they have to go is this one. The whole series is great but this one has a potty making a flushing sound!
Why Literacy Begins in the Bathroom
Reading during everyday routines—like bathtime, mealtime, and yes, potty time—helps kids see reading as a part of life, not just a sit-down activity. It builds language naturally and turns transitions into teachable moments. When toddlers “read” familiar books with you, they’re already taking steps toward decoding and comprehension.
So if you’re potty training and prioritizing literacy, these books are your best friends. They support clear communication, celebrate curiosity, and remind us that every book (even one about poop) has the power to teach.
By Becca Thiemann and Kathleen Koester
