Five Most Common Potty Training Problems
A big step in development for toddlers is in using the toilet, which some adapt to very easily while others experience potty training problems. Fortunately, in time, all children overcome these issues, but it can be frustrating for parents in the meantime.
One key point a parent should keep in mind is that, to a toddler, a diaper is security. After all, it has always been there. Being understanding and patient as the transition in both the emotional change and the physical change of toilet training takes place will make this period of time easier both parent and child. It is also important to remember that although the parent may be ready for the transition from diaper to toilet, the child may not be. Each child develops at their rate, and should not be compared to other children of the same or other age. Attempting to force a child who simply is not ready to toilet train will result in frustration for everyone involved.
Common problems with potty training
While all children are different, it seems that the problems experienced with potty training are the same. Not all toddlers will display all of the issues, but there are several problems that are more commonly seen by parents.
- The child doesn’t know when he has to go. Control over the bladder and bowel occur at different times. Sometimes, a child may be able to tell when they need to have a bowel movement, but not when they have to urinate. It can be frustrating when a child sits on the potty for several minutes without going, but then either urinates or has a bowel movement right after getting off. Once they recognize the sensation and are able to control the muscles, the timing will be right.
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The child refuses to use the toilet. This may mean that the child simply isn’t ready yet for training. It is helpful for the parent to recognize the signs a toddler displays when they are about to urinate or have a BM, and usher the child to the potty at that time. Avoid being critical or overly enthusiastic over the situation.
- Fear of the toilet. The toilet, from a toddler’s standpoint, can be a scary thing. It makes loud noises and it causes things to disappear. Children may have a fear of falling in and disappearing as well, or may just be fearful of the noise. Encourage the use of their very own potty chair, while at the same time allowing them to flush the toilet so they can see they have control over it.
- The child uses the potty during the day, but wets the bed at night. This potty training problem plagues many children. It could be an issue with controlling the muscles, or may mean that your child is a heavy sleeper and doesn’t feel the urge. Limiting fluids before bedtime and encouraging the toddler to use the bathroom immediately before going to bed may help.
- The child has been using the potty regularly, but suddenly begins having accidents. Accidents are natural; children often get so engrossed in their play that they put off going to the potty until the last minute only to find there is no time. Treat these incidences lightly, while encouraging the child to pay attention to the signals. If the accidents occur frequently, there may be something bothering them; stress can often cause developmental back steps.
Potty training is a huge step in a child’s development. Patience is a key component for a parent as the process rarely proceeds without a hitch. When potty training problems do occur, remember that they are normal and work through them with understanding and persistence. Before you know it, diapers will be a thing of the past.