Potty regression can occur when a child starts to have accidents after learning to use the toilet. To prevent it, ensure readiness, avoid environmental changes, don’t punish accidents, be consistent, and address health issues. Timing and recognizing readiness signs are important.
When a child first starts potty training, parents are often warned of something called potty regression. In this situation, a child might learn to use the toilet, then suddenly start to fall back, having more and more accidents. Two ways to help prevent potty regression are to make sure your child is actually ready to learn to use the toilet, and to avoid major environmental changes during the potty training period. Also, to achieve potty training success and avoid setbacks, don’t punish your child if he has an accident or resists using the bathroom, and make sure your potty training technique is consistent.
Timing for potty training can be a little confusing at times, as some children are ready to start potty training before the age of two, while others may not be ready until they’re nearly their fourth birthday. . Recognizing the signs of potty training can help reduce the chances of your child regressing when he or she is learning to use the bathroom. Some studies show that children who start using the potty before they are ready often take much longer to learn to use the toilet on their own. Others may even learn this skill completely, only to need diapers again in a few months. If your child doesn’t show interest in the toilet, or doesn’t show other signs of being potty-ready, chances are he’s not, and forcing the issue could lead to potty regression.
Most experts agree that a stable, structured, and calm environment is the ideal environment for a child who is potty training. Sometimes, a significant change in a child’s environment, such as a new home, daycare, or sibling, can lead to potty training regression. If possible, when potty training a child, make sure it doesn’t happen right after or during a major change.
Negative reactions or negative reinforcement often impact potty training, which can even lead to potty training regression. If a child doesn’t seem to show any interest in using the potty, or has numerous accidents, punishing him usually won’t improve the situation. Punishment can cause your child to have a negative association with the toilet, which is counterproductive to potty use. If an accident occurs, simply wipe the child clean and put him on the toilet until he can go, but don’t force him if he makes a fuss.
Pediatricians often advise parents to be consistent in their potty training techniques, both at home and anywhere else your child may go. If a child is staying with other relatives, or going to a basitter or daycare, let the adults responsible for the child know that you have started using the potty. Explain your technique and make sure they are willing to go with it. Many times, if potty training technique is changed or abandoned when you’re not around, it can confuse your child and possibly lead to potty training regression.
The disease can also sometimes lead to regression from potty training. If a child has an illness that makes it difficult to urinate, defecate or control any of these bodily functions, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. A problem like a urinary tract infection or constipation, for example, can make it difficult or painful for a child to go to the bathroom. Fixing these health issues will often help get him back on track.
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