Thanks for the advice.  Unfortunately, our backyard isn't completely fenced in (there's one section cobbled together with bungee cords and some old latticework--enough to befuddle the dog but certainly not Son left to his own devices), and, as I'm in the northern US, it's pretty cold during the days, now, and getting colder.

I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable leaving him outside alone, anyway... 

 Ha!  Well, they are very close in age.

I tried closing him in the bathroom WITH me once, so I could keep an eye on him, but he spent the whole time trying to scramble into my lap (um, no.) or playing with our open bathtub drain (ew) where I couldn't reach him to have him stop, or opening the linen closet (also too far away to reach) and pulling down all the towels.  Then he started on the drawers of the vanity, tossing toothbrushes, makeup, and assorted other things.  If it moves and he can cause it, he will!  In any case, the result was a LONGER bathroom break that it would've been, given the, uh, interruptions.  Never again. lol

We learned about two weeks ago that he's seen us lock the doorknobs enough to "get it" and can now both unlock and open the doors.  Luckily he's shown no interest in going outside on his own yet, and our front door deadbolts.

God, can you imagine what they could do if they collaborated? 

OMGosh they sound like TWINS separeated at Birth!!!!! That is my Jedd to a TEE!!!!! For tunately we have a small bathroom and I can lock both places that I don't want him into.

Good Luck trying to get some space....

I think bringing out plastic tubs from the cupboard or something  else exciting that he isn't usually allowed may work. Just place it outside the bathroom and close all other doors.  I tried that with my older two but it didn't work for the younger two.

I must say though, i have only just started to shut the door on my 3yr old and usually resort to a Dvd for the peace.

My youngest is also an escape artist and i also found him microwaving some dishes(empty) which gave me a fright. This was during a visit to the toilet. 

I will have plenty to laugh about if he survives the next few years intact.

 But that's just it!  I leave the door open, even when he's in his high chair, so I can hear him.  When he got loose, he didn't run to the bathroom to see me, or find a toy and play nearby.  I'm almost sure the kid went "HA!  Mom has no idea what I'm doing!  I can get into all the things I'm not supposed to now!"

Also, we live in a split-level open floor plan home, so shutting all other doors means he can still get to the dining, living, kitchen, porch, and downstairs. Unfortunately, the only places I can block off that way are our room and his own. 

I may try the dvd, but I hold little hope it will be enough distraction--once he realizes I'm out of view, he'll try something.

~sigh~

His own room sounds like a good idea. Perhaps he may play nicely(fat chance i know) whilst you do your business.

My doctor actually recommended this when i was on the pill and struggling with temper problems. Leaving my daughter safe whilst i calmed down.   Just make sure everything in the room is too big to choke on then away you go.

Or maybe you could just  wait for the loo.  For a year or two.

It surprises me, Mums haven't evolved enough physically to not need, to answer natures call.