How to Teach Boys to Use Public Restrooms
The celebration that accompanies successful potty training is quickly forgotten when parents enter a public restroom with their son. The prerequisite skills for using the toilet independently are no different in a public restroom from the home bathroom. However, parents question their own skill level when preparing a child to face a bevy of bacteria or a stranger in a public restroom. Parents struggle to achieve a balance that nurtures the child's independence while continuing to provide protection.
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Instructions
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Teach boys how to recognize public restroom signs. Talk about the differences between the signs that designate men's and women's restrooms. Discuss public family restrooms and help your child to recognize them.
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Dress your child in clothing that permits him to easily pull down his pants or access his zipper front independently. Pants or shorts designed with an elastic waist work well for boys who have recently completed the first stages of potty training.
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Accompany your child when using a public restroom if he is less than 6 years old. If your child is approximately 6 to 8 years old, allow him to use a public restroom in a familiar setting such as a library or restaurant. Accompany your older child to restrooms serving crowded public areas such as sports arenas and movie theaters.
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Teach your child to practice safety precautions every time he uses a public restroom. Try to avoid restrooms with two entrances. Tell your child to select a stall close to the restroom's door. Reiterate to your child not to speak with or accept assistance from other adults.
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Teach your child the importance of extending the habit of thoroughly washing, rinsing and drying his hands from the home bathroom to all public restrooms. Model appropriate hygiene for your child.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider each child's level of social and intellectual maturity when assessing his readiness to use a public restroom independently. An opposite gender parent can ask a security guard, employee or adult friend to check on a child.
References
- Dr. Huggie Bear.Com: Teaching Safe Use of Public Toilets
- Potty Training Solutions: Achieving Potty Training Independence Away From Home
- New Haven Register: Men's or Women's Room - The Choice Isn't Always So Easy When Children Have to Go
- Baby Center: When Will My Son Be Old Enough to Use the Men's Room by Himself?
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
