The Importance of Nakedtime During Potty Training

Backyard nakedtime during the warm weather months is a wonderful potty-training opportunity that makes for easy cleanup, thus reducing stress for parents. Additionally, it's fun. Get a kiddie pool and let your child fill it with the hose. Buy a party-size bottle of bubble fluid and have at it. Popsicles can drip all they want—there are no clothes to stain.

Safety during nakedtime in the backyard is paramount. We recommend shoes, to reduce the chances for injury. Choose sandals, water shoes, or something easily cleanable (even old sneakers you're about to toss out) because they will probably get dirty during an accident.

Are your kids prone to sunburn?Sunscreen is a must on their body regardless, but if your child is very fair, you may not want to expose him to the sun during the hottest part of the day. An outgrown t-shirt may be just the trick to shade his torso, while still leaving the lower half easily accessible. (A regular or long t-shirt may get in the way and become wet.)

Is your yard splinter-free?That is, do you have a mulched area such as around a swing set where splinters could poke a sensitive area? If so, you'll probably want to restrict nakedtime to another part of the yard. If you determine that your child can safely use a swing set during nakedtime, you'll need to be extra vigilant about falls. Sliding would probably best be avoided, as would riding a bike.