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Imitation Is the Sincerest Form of Flattery
Should You Let Your Child Watch You Use the Potty?
By Lisa A. Goldstein
It's a vulnerable position to be in, and some of us were taught that bathroom habits are absolutely private and never to be discussed, Rogers says. For that reason, no one should feel forced to use this technique if it truly makes them uncomfortable.
"I would never force this technique on anyone," she says. "The goal is to teach the child that everything is OK, safe and normal, and if the parent is upset or doing this technique against his or her will, the message will be compromised or lost." Additionally, says Rogers, sometimes a parent might just need that time alone, for whatever reason. It's OK to say "no" and close the door.
Of course the door may open to other things – literally – when it comes to letting your child watch you use the toilet. Caruso now has to close the bathroom doors after she's finished because her daughter likes to flush the toilet repeatedly and unroll the toilet paper, leaving a mess for her to clean up!
Ultimately, as Rogers' Safer Child Web site recommends, it can be helpful to show your child what to do. "Are you squeamish about letting your child see you in the bathroom?" she says. "Try to get over this for now. Your child will benefit from watching you and your spouse or partner. It's easier and more effective to show ... than it is to explain."