Tips for Potty Training Boys

You have probably heard the myth that boys are harder to potty train than girls. Well, as a mom of three boys and a certified potty trainer, I want to tell you that this is FALSE! The truth is that every child is different and will move at their own pace.

That being said, I have put together a list of tips that any boy mom can use to make potty training her son go smoother.

If you are wondering if you child is ready to potty train, get my POTTY TRAINING READINESS CHECKLIST.

Tips for Potty Training Boys

1. Sitting – Always start the potty training process having your son sit to pee. This not only help make it less mess and clean up but gets boys used to sitting for pooping. Some kids will have a fear or resistance to pooping so having them already sitting to pee gets them used to it. And don’t worry, standing to pee is almost instinctual so it will happen pretty naturally. My boys all started standing to pee about 6 months to a year after potty training.

I used this little potty with all three of my boys and highly recommend it.

2. Touching Themselves – This is something that is rarely mentioned in potty training but when you keep a boy bare buns (or naked from the waist down) they will probably start grabbing or playing with their penis. This can be quite uncomfortable for parents but I assure you they are only doing it because it’s there. There is nothing sexual about it. After a few days, when they are ready for pants, this will stop. But I do remember thinking that it was a bit disturbing, but trust me, my boys all turned out fine. This is very normal.

3. Dress for Success – Dress your son in clothing that is easy to remove, such as elastic-waist pants or shorts, to make it easier for him to independently use the potty. Things like buckles, tight jeans or belts make it harder to push pants down themselves.

4. Transition to Standing – I transitioned my boys to standing after they were successfully day trained and mostly accident free. I taught my boys to push their tummy out when they were peeing because this gave them a better angle so they didn’t pee on their feet or the bathroom floor. You can also give him a target in the toilet (aim for the Cherio or water) or ground (try to hit the leaf).

5. Peeing Outside – I like to think that this is one of the perks of being a boy mom. When we are out and about and there is no convenient bathroom, I find it totally acceptable to have them pee in a bush or by a tree. I set the boundary that this was only when we couldn’t get to the bathroom and to find a private place. When we are home, we have a “pee spot” in our yard (that is close to our garden hose) where they are allowed to pee. I didn’t want them peeing just anywhere.

6. Hand Washing – Teach your son the importance of washing his hands after using the potty. Make it a regular part of the routine to ensure good hygiene habits. We used these soap balls at home and my boys love them.

7. Make it a Competition – Boys love a friendly competition. Make a friendly race to see who can use the potty first. This can create excitement and a sense of accomplishment. You can even challenge your son to see who can put more pee in the potty.

8. Use Dad as a Role Model – Boys often learn best from observing other males. If possible, let your son watch his father, older brother, or another trusted male figure use the potty. This can help him understand that potty training is something boys do too.

9. Have Patience – Potty training is a process. Many people are led to believe that potty training should take 3 days where in fact, most kids need longer than that to master this new skill. Don’t think that if your child doesn’t get it in 3 days that there is anything wrong with you or him.