Fingerpainting with feces

My Grandson who turn four in July refuses to use the potty for bowel movements. On occassion he has fingerpainted everything using his feces. My son and daughter-in-law are at their wits end.
They have tried reward charts, time outs, discussions; etc.
Help!

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

It is not unusual for two-year-olds and even three-year-olds to play with feces. Remember that such young children do not by nature know that this practice is not hygienic - they need to be taught. Four-year-olds typically have moved beyond that behavior, but this is onviously not the case with your grandson. Is he developing normally in all other respects? Are there any developmental problems? If not, the matter can be approached in a straightforward behavioral manner. His parents should set a clear limit on this, telling him it's not allowed. Diapers should be emptied in the toilet and nowhere else. He can help his parents to do this. Of course he should also be encouraged to use the potty/toilet and rewarded when he does.

[Amanda828]

A related discussion, Why has my almost four yr. old daughter started playing with her feces? was started.