Maggie David

July 15th, 2009 by Maggie

Potty Training Regression is not uncommon and something Mums and Dads should not worry about even though you may find it frustrating. (Easier said than done I know)

One thing I would stress to all you lovely Mums and Dads out there is to try not to show your frustration to your child or punish your child for this.  In fact, many children aren’t completely potty trained by the age of three, especially for bowel movements.

Lets look at some of the reasons your child may be back sliding.

Sit down with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee  (Go on now – take 5) and make a list of any changes in your child’s routine that may cause stress. I will make a list of some of the common ones –

New Brother or Sister

Starting at Day Care or Pre-School

Had an “Accident” Or got into trouble at Day Care or Pre-School

Mum going out to work after being at home with her child

Moving House

Arguments and Tension Between Parents

Death of a Grandparent

Death of beloved pet

Also is your child constipated?  If so he/she may have had a painful bowel movement (think how it is when you have been constipated) and is waiting until the last minute to go and simply can’t make it to the “Potty” on time.

Plus one thing I know for sure is that so many children are having such fun playing; they don’t want to take a break and go to the bathroom or just don’t recognize the urge to go because they are so absorbed in what they are doing.

With that said, how is it handled?

Firstly, I would say, make sure your child is getting enough fluids and roughage and exercise during the day to ensure that any stool movement is easy to pass.  You don’t want resistance due to “Pain”.

Secondly, adopt a schedule and remind your child to go every 2 or 3 hours include in the schedule putting your child on the toilet or potty immediately after waking just before bed or a nap and after each meal as often these are the time when a bowel movement can happen. Even if your child doesn’t go, offer heaps of praise and give extra attention because the child has tried.

Another big thing I want every Mum and Dad to remember is that you should NEVER Put your child back in nappies as that is going to cause even more stress.  If accidents happen, please DO NOT over-react as it can become a power struggle because you are reinforcing negative attention, just quietly remind your child that the toilet or potty is where they need to.

Having a reward chart for days where accidents do not happen can also be a good thing as can reading some books on potty training. 

Remember to smile, as this stage too will pass and remember always that it is normal and common for all of our precious children to have set backs with potty training.

Until Next Time,

Love and Light