Potty Training Site

As a mom of two boys, both of whom are now potty trained, I can understand quite a bit when it comes to potty training boys. My oldest turned out to be a challenge for me taking me all the way to the brink. The youngest took a little while, but with a lot of coaxing, encouragement and praise he picked it up quickly and took off. Everyday I am helping families all over the world get through potty training successfully- something they thought was nearly impossible for their situation.

Anyone who will be, is or has been working on potty training a boy should know that all children are different. It is okay to start potty training as soon as they are walking. Most families though, wait until their child is around 2 to 3 years old before beginning potty training. The MOST important part of potty training is that both caregiver AND child must be ready for potty training. If one is frustrated it won’t work, period. It is like running into a brick wall and being unable to climb it.

Take a step back, focus on other things that make you feel better. During this time you can prepare yourself for potty training. Make time out of your schedule to dedicate time Only to potty training. Once you feel you can devote a weekend to potty training go for it.

Below are the Top Ten Tips I have for Potty Training Boys:

1. Have a schedule and be consistent!

I say this because the more consistent you are the chances are your child will pick it up soon. Inconsistency can lead to frustration for both child and parent. If your child gets into a habit they’ll be more prepared than having something sprung on them.

2. Start out by letting them sit on the potty

You want them to become familiar with the potty first and how to use it. If you have a private spot anywhere in your yard, let your son go out and practice peeing standing up. Remind them that this is the only place they are allowed to do it unless they ask.

3. Utilize favorites: toys, blanket, books, tv shows, movies and treats

Integrating favorite things into potty training can help tremendously. It can grab their attention for just a little while besides getting them calmed down enough to cooperate with you. It also is a great way to keep them entertained and happy.

4. Make a game out of potty training

Let’s see how many times you can go in the potty today for a special prize. What color will the pee turn (using food coloring)? Aim for the cheerio, Aim for the Square (of toilet paper), are just a few ideas to make it fun to try! Add a rewards bowl or jar to the game by placing pieces of paper with a reward to be received so they can draw from the prize jar.

5. Don’t wait for them to tell you they have to go potty!

Every week I have parents writing to me that their child will not tell them they need to go potty and then they have accidents. When you are first teaching your child to go potty don’t overwhelm them by expecting them to tell you they need to go. Take them each and every time unless they specifically tell you they have to go. Besides, children are often very busy playing or watching a tv show or movie and definitely will not move unless you move them yourself.

6. Keep a positive attitude

I know this can be easier said than done when your son has had accidents, refuses to use the potty and you are on a deadline to get him potty trained for school. Keep a journal handy and write down how you will feel once you get him potty trained. What I do is “turn the channel” meaning if I am starting to feel bad about something, I just change the channel to something else that makes me feel good. It is important to know that what you are feeling so is your child.

7. Once you switch, stick to it

When you decide you and your child are ready for potty training then start using underwear, stick with it. Going back and forth from Diapers/Pull-Ups to underwear can cause confusion in some children. Many times if a child is in underwear and have an accident they become aware of the sensations they get when peeing and or pooping. After a few times of this and being required to help clean themselves up, it can deter them from doing it again.

8. Potty Training is a Great time to bond

When you choose to spend time with your child it makes them feel good. They love attention from mommy or daddy. Potty training is an important milestone in your child’s life and you are their teacher. What you do during this time can leave a lasting impression on them. Take the time out of your busy schedule and dedicate it to them. If you can rearrange things for three days then you can get them potty trained.

9. Reward them for their efforts

It doesn’t have to be much. Think of things your son enjoys receiving such as ice cream, cookies, cake, lollipop, extra outside time, Mc Donald’s, you name it. Create a treasure box with little toys. Make a poster of the Super Big Prize when they finally pick up going to the potty successfully. Be creative with what your child enjoys receiving.

10. Praise, Praise, Praise

Keep potty training positive by always praising your child as they learn to use the potty. Accidents will happen but they are just that, accidents. Potty training is a learning process for your child. Remember, they  have not done this before and YOU are their teacher. Let them know it is Ok. Let them try again in a little while. Let them pick out a prize for their efforts to keep motivating them to try again. Hug them, motivate and praise your child each and every time.