be steady as a rock. or offer your child the option of using a potty chair (pick one with a sturdy base that won’t tip over when he gets up).
hold off on flushing. if the sound of rushing water spooks your sweetie so much that he has trouble pooping, wait until he’s out of the room before flushing. as he becomes more comfortable with the noise, gradually close the distance — he can stand in the next room, the hallway, the doorway, and so on. then, when he’s ready, ask him if he wants to push down on the lever himself.
say good-bye. if your tot seems anxious when he catches 