Anything that comes after this? Bring it. We have potty trained and therefore, we can do anything.
I want to share all the things I have learned (the hard way), with the hope of saving others some of the stress that comes along with figuring it all out. Since the day we started potty training our first kid I’ve kept notes of EVERYTHING you need to be successful without it being stressful.
So here’s the thing. Potty training boys really starts before you begin the actual act of potty training. Wait, what? Yes, and you can read all about how to start as early as 8 months here.
If you’ve passed the early introduction stage and are ready to actually jump in with a toddler then keep reading.
Now, for the biggest question that’s a little more specific…
Potty training boys
There isn’t a huge difference in potty training boys vs girls, though it’s common to hear that it does take longer for boys. Typically mom is the one taking on most of the duties and children learn best by example. So if dad can get in there and show how it’s done, then you may stand a chance to speed along the process. If not, that’s ok just have patience as every child will learn this at their own pace.
How to get started potty training boys?
First things first, go ahead and download this free book The Age of Potty Training to help you figure out when your little one is ready I’ve written this free book for you.
Where to Potty Train and What do I Need?
A few weeks to a month before potty training is a good time to collect supplies. I made up a list of essentials for boys and girls, plus a few things that simply come in handy.
A closed-in space – reducing the area your son has access to can help you keep a better eye on things, and capture success!
A mini potty – Start with a small floor potty, especially if your son is on the younger side. Eliminating the dexterity it takes to climb up and balance on the big toilet can reduce their stress and allow them to focus on matters at hand. Urge sensation and quickly sitting on the potty!
Or two? – Having two mini toilets can increase your success. Giving kids options (like which one and in which space they want to use) can help empower them. Kids love choices! Having a second potty also makes traveling a breeze. Just pack the potty in the trunk or back seat when heading out! Your son may even “need to go” just for the novelty of using his toilet in the car!
A step-stool – Safely helping your son access running water will making handwashing a simple fun part of potty training
Potty Training Hygiene
Wet wipes – These make cleaning easy and effective by teaching how to wipe with wet wipes. This will help reduce irritation of that delicate skin by keeping things clean. Try flushable ones for a more “real life” experience!
A faucet extender – Short arms will need help getting that water, so why not bring the water to them! Faucet extenders are the best way to help your son gain access to splashy hand washing fun!
Extra clothes – It’s a good idea to a few extra clothes for both of you within reach.
Successful Potty Training
Trainers – Training pants may not be necessary for the first few days of the potty learning process, but expect potty training to take a few weeks or even a few months. Support your new-found potty training career with waterproof, mildly absorbent training pants to help reduce your anxiety around potty training. But don’t use disposables! They absorb too much and can give you a false sense of security that can delay the process. You can shop my favorite training pants here.
Stay & Play Ideas – Such as a remote control car – Well, this may not be essential to potty training, but having a plan to get your son to sit and stay long enough for the magic to happen is. A remote control car can let them play while sitting, and might thrill them so much that they will beg to use the toilet! Other ideas include fun books, stickers, action figures, and other stay-and-play toys.
Incentives – Don’t stop the incentives after the first few days. Map out a plan to help your child earn rewards for the behavior you want: potty use! You can try these free punch cards too! Click here to download.
Long term potty training follow-through
Support – Read some potty training books, and get in a community that can help you troubleshoot unexpected surprises! It takes a village! Looking for a community to join? We have a Facebook group for that.
Additional resources – Whether there is an imbalance of power in your home between child and adult, or you just need some really solid “how-to” advice, my book Potty Training Through Parenting is sure to help!