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4 for Fun
Creative Toilet Training Tips That Lead to Smiles
By Keath Castelloe Low
Want another fun "target" practice idea for boys? Try "Toilet-Time Targets." The targets come in a variety of animal shapes. Janice Bashman, who lives just outside of Philadelphia, Pa., used these targets when her son was potty training. "It made the process fun for him, and it was flushable," she says. As the Toilet-Time Targets advertisement says, "Ready? Aim, fire! It's more fun than writing your name in the snow!"
"Children are natural mimics," Dr. Sonna says. Puppets, role-playing and demonstrations all help with learning. Several "potty dolls" on the market actually drink and wet. Some even have an internal bladder that will hold water until your child pushes the stomach. Your child may enjoy acting out the toileting process with the doll.
Remember monkey see, monkey do? Yes, there is even a potty training monkey available. "Potty Monkey" has a timer and requests to go potty every 30 or 90 minutes. Potty Monkey will also talk or sing every time he is placed on the potty.
Of course, you don't have to spend money on a new toy. A stuffed animal or doll from around the house works, too. Sock puppets are lots of fun. You can even combine singing, dancing and acting together with puppets.
You can also arrange for special phone calls from your child's favorite superhero or princess. Enlist your neighbors and friends to play the part, and have them give your child positive feedback for working so hard on potty training.
Whatever you decide to do with potty training, keep it playful and relaxed! Who knew potty training could be such fun?