Let's be real - diapers can get expensive and the sooner your little one gets out of them the better. The age at which boys are ready to potty train can vary widely. While some boys may be ready as early as 18 months, others may not be ready until they are 3 years old or older. Most boys start potty training between the ages of 2 and 3.
It's important to keep in mind that every child is different, and there's no one "right" age to start potty training. Some signs that your son may be ready to start potty training include showing interest in the bathroom, staying dry for longer periods of time, or verbalizing when he needs to go.
If your son is not showing any signs of readiness, it may be best to wait a little longer before starting potty training. Pushing your child too early can lead to frustration and resistance, and may make the process take longer overall.
When you do decide to start potty training, it's important to be patient and consistent. Encourage your son to use the potty regularly, offer rewards for successful attempts, and don't get upset if there are accidents.
Step 1: Prepare Your Son
Before you begin potty training, it's important to prepare your son. Talk to him about what potty training is, and why it's important. Explain that he will no longer be wearing diapers and will instead be using the toilet like a big boy.
Step 2: Choose the Right Time
Choosing the right time to start potty training is crucial. Pick a time when you can focus on potty training and avoid starting during stressful periods like traveling or when sick.
Step 3: Introduce the Potty Sitting Down
Introduce your son to the potty, and let him explore it. Teach him how to use it by demonstrating how to first sit on it, and encourage him to try it himself. It may be helpful to get a portable training potty or potty training ladder attachment to the toilet.
Gradually introduce him to peeing standing up by having him watch you or another male figure in the family demonstrate how to do it. To demonstrate proper aim, use targets, such as Cheerios or stickers, to help make it more fun and interesting for him. Teach him to hold his penis with one hand and aim towards the back of the toilet bowl to avoid splashing or missing the target.
Step 4: Encourage Your Son
Encourage your son to use the potty regularly. Offer rewards for successful attempts, and don't get upset if there are accidents. Boys tend to take longer to potty train than girls, so patience and encouragement are key.
Step 5: Use Two-Piece Pajamas
During the potty training process, it's important to use two-piece pajamas for boys rather than onesies. This is because they can simply pull down their pants and use the potty, without having to remove their entire outfit. Encourage your son to dress himself as much as possible, including pulling up and down his own pants, so he feels more independent in the process.
Potty training boys to pee standing up requires patience and encouragement, but with time and practice, your son will be a pro in no time.