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The Stand-Up Routine: A Guide to Toilet Training Challenges
After extensive preparation and a series of encouraging discussions, I have embarked on the journey of toilet training my young son, Oliver. This process has included countless read-aloud sessions of engaging lift-the-flap books, numerous rewards for progress, and plenty of emotional moments. I’ve invested over $20 in toddler underwear, only to find a good portion of it discarded rather than laundered. Despite the occasional accidents—both intentional and unintentional—I believe Oliver may have finally grasped the concept of recognizing the urge to use the toilet.
While I remain cautiously optimistic, it seems that we have crossed a significant threshold. Oliver now dashes to the bathroom when he feels the need, following the expected sequence of actions associated with independent toileting. However, we face challenges in technique and execution. Picture a basketball player at the free-throw line, with the game hanging in the balance, yet lacking the form needed to succeed. Unfortunately, Oliver’s attempts resemble air balls more than anything resembling a successful shot.
Despite the setbacks, Oliver insists on mimicking his father’s “stand-up routine” when it comes to using the toilet. While it is endearing, his short stature and inability to balance on his tiptoes prevent him from effectively using the toilet in this manner. It would greatly benefit our progress if he would consider using the child-friendly toilet seat designed to contain his little, yet unpredictable, anatomy. This chair, which cost me a whopping forty dollars, remains unused and clean, a solitary fixture in the bathroom that escapes the splatter zone.
As a female, I find it difficult to teach a young boy the intricacies of aiming. Our biological differences mean that sitting down offers a level of control that standing simply does not. The reality is that standing to urinate can be quite messy and, frankly, I often wish the men in my life would opt for outdoor facilities instead, sparing me the need to constantly replenish my supply of rubber gloves and disinfecting wipes. “Sorry, neighbors! You might want to keep an eye on your trees,” I jest.
We have experimented with various strategies, and I commend my husband for suggesting “target practice.” The idea is simple: throw a small object into the toilet, such as a marshmallow or a piece of toilet paper, and encourage Oliver to aim for it. “Hit it, buddy! You can do it!” I cheer. However, he struggles to control the flow, resembling a fire hose unleashed without any direction. The situation can only be likened to a chaotic art project where the paint is splattered everywhere, rather than a controlled, precise task. While I will always support Oliver in his pursuits, I sincerely hope he doesn’t grow into one of those individuals who neglects to lift the seat or clean up afterwards.
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In conclusion, potty training a young boy can be an unpredictable yet humorous endeavor, filled with its fair share of challenges. Though the journey may be messy, the ultimate goal remains to foster independence and good habits.