How to Potty Train My 2-Year-Old Son

As your son moves from babyhood to childhood, you will need to devote time and effort to proper potty training. Although there is no set age at which potty training should begin, many parents begin potty training about the time their son turns 2. Potty training your son effectively requires focus and persistence, but the results are worth the effort as your child leaves his diapers behind and transitions into big-boy underpants.

Things You'll Need

  • Potty-training books for boys
  • Potty chair
  • Cereal

Instructions

    • 1

      Read potty books to your son. You can find a wide variety of potty-themed books, especially for boys, such as "Sam's Potty," by Barbro Lindgren or "Uh Oh! Gotta Go!," by Bob McGrath. By introducing the topic of using the potty with engaging picture books, you can effectively ease your son into the practice.

    • 2

      Allow your son to watch and learn. If your little boy sees others using the potty, he will begin to understand how the practice works. Let your son watch Mom and Dad as they do their business so he can see the concept in action.

    • 3

      Introduce a potty chair. The adult-sized toilet will most likely be intimidating to your toddler. Let him start his potty usage with something his own size. Buy a potty chair and place it next to the adult toilet. Explain to your son that the small potty is just for him.

    • 4

      Start by sitting. Most experts agree that boys should begin learning to use the toilet by both pooping and urinating while seated. After he has mastered using the toilet while sitting, you can introduce the concept of standing up to urinate.

    • 5

      Sit your son on the potty chair every 30 minutes. When your son first starts potty training, he will not understand how to recognize his urges. During this stage, you need to sit your son on the potty chair at regular intervals, and encourage him to do his business while seated on his throne.

    • 6

      Talk to your child about his bathroom urges. As your son begins to understand how he feels when he has to use the bathroom, you can assist him by discussing these feelings with him. Ask him, "How does it feel when you have to pee?" Allow him to describe the feeling so that he has a better understanding of it.

    • 7

      Move on to standing after your son has mastered seated bathroom use. Don't rush this step.

    • 8

      Practice aim. To help your son practice his aim, place a piece of cereal in the toilet, and encourage him to try to hit the target while he urinates.

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