Potty training boys can pose more of a challenge to parents and caretakers. The National Network for Child Care indicates that female children acquire more control over their bowels and bladders sooner than male children, with the majority of girls achieving independent toileting by age 2 1/2, compared to boys, who are usually potty-trained by age 3. However, in addition to developmental differences, boys take longer to potty train because they must first learn to use the toilet sitting before they master the art of toileting while standing up.
Signs of Readiness
The American Academy of Family Physicians notes children of both genders display readiness between 18 and 24 months of age, although it's not uncommon for a child to still be in diapers over the age of 2 or even 3 years. When your child is ready to potty train, the signs may be clear. He may ask to sit on the adult's toilet or express the desire to wear "big boy" underpants. He can follow easy one-step commands and comprehend simple questions. As a parent, you may notice that your child stays dry during naps or for two or more hours at a time. Bowel movements are fairly predictable, and your child exhibits clear signs when he's about to defecate, such as squatting or straining.
Preparing for Potty Training
Potty training begins with the right equipment. An adult toilet may be adapted for the child with a special toddler-sized seat and step stool. However, KidsHealth.org notes that using a stand-alone potty chair is more appropriate for boys, as they can feel intimidated by standing on a stool above an adult toilet. The potty chair purchased should allow the child to place his feet flush against the floor so he can maintain stability. The AAFP advises getting the child into a routine by taking him to the potty at certain times, such as after a nap or first thing in the morning--or any time you notice that he needs to go. Make potty training time something to look forward to by reading to the child from his favorite books or engaging him with a preferred toy.
Potty Training Boys
There's a practical reason for boys to first learn how to toilet independently sitting down: bowel movements and urination typically take place concomitantly. Therefore, male children learn that urine and fecal matter belong in the same place. Once boys can sufficiently potty sitting down, they may then graduate to learning how to urinate standing up. At first, the child's aim might be sorely off--caretakers can expect routine clean-ups after potty time. KidsHealth.org advises placing "O"-shaped cereal in the bowl of the potty to help boys with their "target practice."
Modeling
Boys may be more difficult to potty training for yet another reason--lack of a male role model. In her book "Toilet Learning," Alison Mack suggests that female children learn from watching their mothers' toileting habits, as mothers and daughters share the same body parts and therefore urinate the same way. Boys may learn to stand while urinating more readily if they have a male role model to emulate, such as a father, older brother or uncle.
What to Expect
Potty training isn't a quick process; it often takes between three to six months before boys can independently toilet. But a child who's toilet-trained can suffer the occasional setback even after the big boy pants go on, cautions the Mayo Clinic. The occasional accident will happen, so it might be helpful to dress the child in absorbent underwear or keep a spare change of underwear on hand. If a boy who has learned to toilet independently by age 4 suddenly reverts or begins to have frequent accidents, Mayo Clinic experts suggest contacting his pediatrician.
