You may have heard that boys are more difficult to potty train than girls, but that doesn't have to be the case. If you ensure your son's ready to learn, then approach the task with a sense of humor. You and your little guy will have a smooth journey out of Diaper Land.
SIgns of Readiness
Potty training will be faster and less frustrating for both you and your son if you start after he's shown signs of readiness. He should be able to walk to the potty, help you undress him and sit stably on the toilet or potty chair. He should show interest in using the toilet by imitating you, asking to go potty or following you into the bathroom. He'll indicate awareness of a soiled diaper by taking it off or asking you to change him. You'll begin to see signs that he's feeling the need to eliminate---he'll grunt, squat or groan when pooping, grab his diaper when he needs to pee or run to a special place when he's about to fill his diaper. He'll probably also be able to communicate other physical needs, such as hunger or discomfort.
Some boys will show these signs as early as 18 months; others may be 3 before they're ready. Respect your son's development; pushing him to potty train before he's ready will frustrate both of you and could actually prolong the process.
Boys and Girls: Is There a Difference?
Rumor has it that girls are easier to potty train, but this myth may persist simply because moms (and other female caregivers) are the primary potty-trainers, and women may just be more comfortable teaching their daughters to use the bathroom. Moms can't exactly stand up and show Baby Boy how the big guys do it, after all. Teaching your son to sit down to pee might actually be helpful when he's first getting started; he'll be able to focus on the basics without worrying about the tougher tasks of aiming and trying to keep balance while standing.
A Stand-Up Guy
Once he's mastered getting to the bathroom on time, taking his clothes off, peeing in the potty, getting dressed and washing up, you can tackle the more intricate tasks of standing, pointing and aiming. If Dad's able to take him potty often and provide a model, your boy may show interest in standing to pee even sooner.
Just for Boys
Once he's ready, he'll need some help with aiming. If Dad or an older brother is around, he can encourage your little one to "make an X" in the potty and criss-cross streams in the toilet. Hitting floating targets is lots of fun: you can purchase toilet targets, but Cheerios or pieces of toilet paper work just as well. Outside, you can encourage him to "write" in the dirt.
Patience Is Key
Potty training can be a lengthy endeavor. You may be changing diapers for months after you start potty training, and accidents and occasional potty boycotts are normal. Remember that you and your son are partners in this process. Praise successes, be supportive and encouraging when accidents happen and keep your sense of humor, and you'll both feel better about the process.
