How to Successfully Potty Train Boys
Successfully potty training your son requires time and patience, as well as your son's cooperation and motivation. Boys must be taught to not only urinate, but also make a bowel movement in the potty. According to Potty Training Concepts, most potty training experts recommend that toddler boys be potty-trained sitting down.
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Instructions
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Determine if your son is ready to be potty trained. If your son shows interest in learning to use the potty, pulls his pants up and down on his own and stays dry for a few hours at a time, he may be ready to be potty trained.
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Buy a child-sized potty or an adapter seat for the regular toilet. Some children fear falling into the toilet, which can hinder potty training. A child-sized potty may make the child feel more secure. If you prefer the adapter seat, make sure it is comfortable, secure and attaches firmly to the regular toilet. Be sure to provide your son with a foot stool so he can get on and off the potty easily.
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Take your son shopping for underwear. Explain that he will get to pick out and wear "real" underwear just like his dad or older brothers. Let him choose whatever kind he wants.
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Choose your potty training method. Decide whether to switch between diapers and underpants throughout training or to have your son wear underwear full-time. According to Baby Center, many experts and parents find it best to transition right into underwear or cotton training pants. This will allow the child to feel instantly that he is wet. However, you may wish to continue using diapers and disposable underwear at night.
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Initially, have your son sit to use the potty. This will teach him that both bowel movements and urine both belong in the potty. After he becomes comfortable sitting on the potty, have him try the standing position. Allow him to follow Dad -- or other male role model -- into the bathroom to watch.
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Reinforce your son's accomplishment with a special reward. Allow him to watch a new video or give him an extra bedtime story. Alternatively, you can allow him to have candy or a special treat for each successful trip to the potty.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for a potty chair without a urine guard. Boys tend to bump into and scrape their penis on these urine guards. This potentially could cause boys to associate going to the bathroom with pain.
Teach your son bathroom hygiene such as wiping, flushing the toilet and washing hands.
References
Resources
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