5 Reasons Why Boys Should Start Potty Training Seated On The Potty

To sit or to stand. This is a very common question I receive from parents of boys. 

The truth is, in almost all circumstances I recommend children start seated. Here are the top 5 reasons as to WHY:

1. STANDING IS A DISTRACTION

In the beginning the goal is to get as much pee and poop in the potty as possible to build the association that it belongs there. At the end of the day, we are trying to teach our children a complex new skill in the easiest way possible... and adding the skill of learning to aim makes this complex skill even more complicated! So keeping things as simple as possible is the way to go.

I have also seen boys who are encouraged to pee outside on the grass who start to prefer this over using the toilet... which can lead to habits that are difficult to break. So if you would prefer that your child doesn't request to pee on the grass in the middle of the night.. I suggest encouraging pees on the grass further down the track!

2. iTS EASIER TO URINATE WHILE SEATED

When a child sits on the potty, their pelvic floor muscles are more relaxed which makes peeing easier.

This is important in those early days when you want to make the process as easy and comfortable for your child as possible. 

3. THEY MAY NOT HAVE THE MOTOR SKILLS AND COORDINATION JUST YET

Learning to stand to pee takes skill and coordination. At the age of 2, your child likely doesn't yet have the coordination just yet.... and if you start too early, there will be a tonne of "misses" and unnecessary mess!

4. URINATION AND BOWEL MOVEMENTS OFTEN HAPPEN TOGETHER

You want to teach your child that they need to sit for bowel movements, not stand. So separating these can make learning more difficult, especially in the beginning when you're trying to build the association that both pee and poop belong there.

5. THERE IS NO RUSH

Boys can remain seated until they are at least 3 years old. They will learn to pee standing up by watching dad through imitation, or they'll likely start to follow their peers at school! 

It will also be easier once they are tall enough to use a toilet. If you are outside of the home, it's not practical to bring a portable urinal with you.. so you want your child to be tall enough to use a public toilet.

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