Once Upon a Potty
The anatomically explicit narrator identifies body parts, the potty, waiting, accidents and eventual success in a direct sequence originally created to explain toilet learning to a young child.
Once Upon a Potty by Alona Frankel is estimated to take about 6 minutes to read aloud (450 words, 2 sentences a spread). Best for ages 2-4.
- Estimated read-aloud time
- about 6 minutesEstimated read-aloud time
- Words
- 450Approximate
- Sentences per spread
- 2Text density
- Re-read tolerance
- 3/5holds up
- Vocabulary level
- 2/5everyday words
- Best for
- Ages 2-4Age range
Our review
The book does not hide the body or the purpose of the potty. Naming, trying and waiting are treated as ordinary steps, which can help when euphemism has made the process confusing. Separate editions make the historical design visible but also limit how inclusively the language travels.
Potty follows one minimally drawn Baby through decision and success with very few words. Once Upon a Potty is more explicit and explanatory, suited to a child who wants concrete anatomy and sequence. Adults should select or revise terms to match the child's body and family language.
Before you buy it
Boy and girl editions use binary, dated language and illustrations that families may need to adapt. Potty offers a shorter, less anatomical inner monologue.
Themes
- toilet
- bodies
- independence
- routine
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