Somewhere during the span of 18 months to four years, boys will be able to understand gender differences and imitate their father or other male role models. They may also show signs of being ready to potty train. It is important to understand when a boy is ready to potty train, because rushing into the potty training process will not actually speed up things. Children will only grasp the concept when they are physically and psychologically ready.
Readiness
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, all children are ready to begin potty training when they show interest in using the toilet, can follow directions and ask questions, can stay dry for long periods of time, have predictable bowel movements, are uncomfortable in wet or messy diapers and can pull their own pants up and down. There should be a predictable routine and potty training should not be started during major life changes such as a new sibling, starting daycare or a family move.
Speed of Learning
Boys typically take longer than girls when grasping the concept of potty training. This may be because the mother is usually the one doing most of the training, and children learn best by imitating a same-gender parent. Boys also have a longer learning process since most learn to urinate while sitting down before learning to urinate while standing. Many parents choose this method because bowel movements often occur with urination, and it can be easier to deal with aiming and splashing issues after the toilet concept is grasped.
Potty Training Ideas
A boy needs to understand his basic anatomy in order to grasp the concept of going to the bathroom on the toilet. On AskDrSears.com, it is suggested that boys be taught anatomically correct terms for their body parts. It can be beneficial to have him observe his father or another male role model using the bathroom as well. Many parents get child-sized toilets for learning. Others purchase an adapter seat for the adult toilet and a stool that enables the child to reach the toilet. Other potty training ideas include using books and videos, demonstrating with a favorite stuffed animal, using flushable items for target practice or allowing the child to pick out his own underwear.
Learning Process
A pediatrician can recommend whether it is best to use training pants or begin immediately using underwear. Many parents use diapers or training pants during nap time and at night. Boys are ready to stay dry during naps within six months of toilet training. After a few more months, a boy may stay dry during nighttime, depending on the child. According to Babycenter.com, nighttime accidents are normal up to age seven.
Parent Reactions
Parents can encourage potty training in boys by watching for cues, such as jumping up and down or holding the groin area, and then helping him get to the bathroom. Some parents choose to celebrate successful trips to the bathroom with special privileges or stickers until the potty training is complete.
