Poopy vs Poopie: Which Spelling is Correct for Poop References?

As a parent, you’ve probably dealt with your fair share of poopy diapers. But when describing those stinky blowouts, have you ever wondered: Is it “poopy” or “poopie”?

If you’ve agonized over which spelling is correct for describing fecal matters, you’re not alone. Many parents debate whether to use the cutesy “poopie” or the standard “poopy” in their potty training lexicon. After all, both spellings can be found all over baby boards and mom groups.

Before your next diaper change, let’s settle this stinky question once and for all. In this quick article, you’ll learn the definitive answer on how to spell poop references for kids. We’ll also cover some tips for transitioning little ones to the proper term for their number two.

Spoiler alert: When it comes to poop spelling, one version clearly comes out on top. Read on for the #2 solution!

Why “Poopy” is Considered Proper Spelling

When it comes to the English language, most dictionaries provide authoritative guidelines on how words should be spelled. So what do the experts say about poop spelling?

The Merriam-Webster dictionary, a renowned source for English word definitions, clearly lists the proper spelling as:

Poopy

• Adjective: smeared or soiled with feces

You’ll also find “poopy” formally included in dictionaries such as:

• Cambridge Dictionary
• Macmillan Dictionary
• Collins Dictionary
• Oxford Learner’s Dictionary

Meanwhile, a search for “poopie” comes back indicating it is:

• Not an accepted spelling variant
• Not present in major dictionaries
• Likely informal internet slang or baby talk

So according to formal language standards, “poopy” is the proper way to spell this poop-related term. “Poopie” is considered incorrect by authoritative sources.

When and Why Did “Poopie” Emerge?

If “poopie” is improper, how did this spelling gain traction?

The term “poopie” likely emerged from parents using cutesy “baby-talk” with young children, as an affectionate slang way to refer to poop during potty training.

Using a silly sounding word helps take some of the harshness out of referring to unsavory bodily functions. It also allows parents to avoid saying “poop” directly since children relish potty talk.

The word “poopie” surged along with the internet as mommy bloggers and parenting forums grew. “Poopie” offered a quick, informal way for parents to discuss diaper changes or potty mishaps.

Soon “poopie” gained momentum in pop culture through phrases like:

• “Poopie diaper”
• “Made a poopie”
• “Poopie emergency”

Given its juvenile origins, “poopie” emerged as a cutesy colloquialism, not an accepted alternate spelling per se. But many parents continue using it playfully with toddlers.

Why Avoid Using “Poopie” Long-Term?

Is there any harm in continuing to use “poopie” with your toddler or preschooler?

In the short term, no. The made-up word offers a lighthearted way to talk about poop during early toilet teaching. Used occasionally and paired with the proper term “poop,” it’s fine in moderation.

However, child development experts generally recommend transitioning to proper anatomy terminology around ages 3-4, avoiding cutesy phrases long-term.

Here are some reasons to stop using “poopie” as kids grow up:

• Reinforces baby talk instead of proper language
• Can cause confusion on the correct terms for body parts/functions
• Risks them using made-up words at school with peers
• Delayed language skills if improper words continue being used
• Promotes silliness about bathroom activities rather than responsibility

The American Academy of Pediatrics says introducing real anatomy terms early on fosters open communication about health and appropriate develop.

So feel free to get silly during potty training, but start shifting to “poop” instead of “poopie” as your child matures. Proper poop terms pave the way for important toilet training concepts.

Tips for Transitioning Your Tot from “Poopie” to “Poop”

If your toddler has grown attached to saying “poopie,” have patience transitioning to “poop.” Here are some tips:

• Introduce the term “poop” starting around age 2, consistently pairing it with “poopie” each diaper change.
• Say “Time to clean up your poopie! Let’s wipe away the poop.”
• Point out that “poop” is the real grown-up word while still allowing use of “poopie” temporarily.
• Eliminate “poopie” yourself but allow your child to say it as you continue reinforcing “poop.”
• Offer praise when they use “poop” on their own – “Great job using the word poop correctly!”
• If potty training, require use of “poop” when discussing going #2, flushing, wiping, etc.
• By age 4, politely correct them if they use “poopie,” no longer reinforcing the babyish term.

With patience and consistency, you can guide your kiddo to proper poop terminology as their communication skills progress.

What’s Better – Poopy or Poopie?

Now that we’ve thoroughly analyzed proper spelling and use of potty lingo, what’s our final verdict on “poopy” vs “poopie”?

In summary:

• According to accepted language standards, “poopy” is the proper spelling when referring to feces or anything poop-related.
• “Poopie” emerged as an affectionate slang term in parent-child potty talk, not official English.
• Using “poopie” playfully in the short term is fine, but transition to “poop” as kids approach ages 3-4.
• Proper anatomical terms like “poop” lay the right foundation for toilet skills and health communication long-term.

So feel free to get silly with “poopie” during those grueling potty training years! But be mindful about switching to proper poop terminology as your youngster’s language skills advance.

With the right approach, you’ll have your tot using perfect potty words – and ditching the poopie talk – in no time.