Ah, Researchers. They'll Study Anything.

It seems Belgian researchers are studying how electronics can be used in ... eh-hem ... potty training. The study uses diapers with electronic inserts that play a pleasant musical sound when they become wet. The music alerts adults, enabling them to change the diaper more quickly, provide positive feedback, and "help children focus on bladder control more efficiently."

The results, published in Neurology and Urodynamics, which is apparently a real journal, have been promising. According to the article, researcher Dr. Peter Richel said he did not see a downside to the musical method. (But what if the child likes the song? Won't it be sort of the opposite of Pavlov's dogs?)

Anyway, I always thought potty training came down to a couple of books. One to teach the general concept:





And one to keep the child seated for a while:

Mother's Day and Father's Day

I'm claiming "End-of-the-School-Year-itis" here.

Today, one week after our last week of school, my latest column appears in the newspaper. Though there are still loose ends to tie up at school, it's technically summer. So I'm up and posting about my latest newspaper column which appears today. Happy Father's Day even if it is a little early. (Or here's the printable version.)

However, one month ago, in the midst of finishing up a school year, my Mother's Day column appeared. And nary a mention here. I'm pretty sure I included something in there about moms being forgiving. Anyways, summer's here, and I'm making up for lost time. Happy Mother's Day, even if it is a little late. (Or here's the printable version.)