Monday, January 28, 2008

Parents Center--Toilet Training : Toilet Training Boys (12 to 24 mo.)

Does it really take longer to toilet train boys than girls?
Yes, although no one seems to know just why. In her book Toilet Learning, author Alison Mack says the difference may be at least partially due to the fact that moms tend to be the primary toilet-trainers in a family. Boys without a male role model to imitate in the bathroom may take a little longer to get the idea, while girls have the advantage of observing someone with the same equipment.

Another reason boys tend to need more time than girls — even if Dad is involved — might be that for them learning to pee in a potty is a two-step process. First they learn to do it sitting down, and then they have to master standing up (see below).

If your son takes longer to toilet train than girls his age, that's okay. Just be sure to watch for the signs of readiness and go from there.

Why should my son start by peeing sitting down?
Since bowel movements and urine often come at the same time, it makes sense — at least initially — to have your son sit for both so he learns that both belong in the potty. This will also keep him from getting distracted by the fun of spraying when you need him to focus on just mastering the basic procedure.

How do I teach my son to pee standing up?
Once your son has mastered going to the bathroom sitting down, he can move on to the standing position. Having a readily available male role model is key, so arrange for Dad, an uncle, an older brother, or a good family friend to do the honors. After accompanying his model to the bathroom to watch, let your son give it a try in his potty chair — on his own or next to the big guy at the big toilet.

If your son seems reluctant, try floating a few pieces of O-shaped cereal or other small, flushable targets (some companies sell products just for this purpose) in the toilet bowl. You can expect to clean up a few messes as your son refines his aim.

FYI: When buying a potty chair for your son, look for one without a urine guard (or one you can remove). While a guard may protect your bathroom from a little stray pee, it's more likely that your son will bump into it and scrape his penis. The last thing you want is for him to associate going to the bathroom with pain!




source from http://www.babycenter.com

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