Potty training

My son is 3 years and 3 monthes old.  He is completely bladder trained, and accomplished this without any difficulties.  However reffuses to deficate in to toilet or potty chair.  Do I just wait or is there something I could do to encourage this?

[HVM M.D. - EV]

Dear Janine,
   I would be very pleased that your son is bladder trained - and not worry about his stooling habits - not for many months, if not another year.
   Rather - I would make sure he is able to produce a soft stool daily, without discomfort - and with time, he will do this in the toilet.  You really don't want to make a issue out of this - because that could lead to bigger problems.  Congratulate him on using the potty at all, without inappropriate praise.  And - remind him gently that eventually the bowel movement will go there, too. A little bit of encouragement is fine - but no push.
Many, if not most, boys take a little time.
  Good luck - Dr. EV
  

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Janine,

Be patient and wait until your son is ready. Keep intrucing him to the potty, even having him sit on it a couple or a few times each day. Reward him when he does use the potty. Don't worry - he'll be fine.