Poop School

It’s every new dad’s nightmare: potty training. On one hand, never changing a diaper again sounds like heaven (and, let’s face it, your partner has probably done most of the dirty work.) On the other, months of struggle and tears make it seem like leaving a child in diapers till college or so might be a viable option.

Enter Toilet Training School. The six-week program engages young ones with books, music and games so they will become less fearful of the toilet. The key, of course, is relaxation. Taking the pressure off of “going” means kids will probably do it more willingly. Meanwhile, parents can also share their potty frustrations with other frazzled moms and dads.

While these schools may take a load off (sorry) new parents, you still have a lot to deal with. Programs like the one at Children’s Hospital in Boston are popping up around the country to help exhausted new dads—and moms—through the potty training process.Take the time to learn all you can about being a new dad. After all, it’s just a matter of time before you’re getting ready for the first day of preschool…