Potty Training Resistance? Know When To Back Off

When your potty training adventure is hitting a roadblock, your first thought may be to search for tips on how to potty train your stubborn child. But remember: Your child might not necessarily be stubborn. They might just not be ready. There are some good reasons to hold off on potty training that are worth considering.

a

Remember: It’s Their Body
The simple truth is you can’t force a child to pee or poop. As frustrated as you may be by your child if they are refusing to use the potty — or if they use the potty at daycare or preschool but not at home — no amount of pushing will fix the issue. If your child is demonstrating potty training resistance, it’s a sign to immediately back off. Sure, it might not be easy. But it’s worth it. That’s because if you push too much on this issue the same type of power struggle is very likely to emerge again in other areas.

If your child has been using the potty but suddenly starts having accidents, it’s called regression. It can happen for many reasons, but they’re usually related to stress (something every parent with a toddler knows a little bit about, right?).

b

Re-evaluate Your Potty Training Approach

●Add some fun to the process. Check out these potty training games along with our tips to make potty training fun. If you’ve already been using some fun potty training rewards and games, mix it up and try something new. What gets one kid excited — like a sticker chart — might not be motivating for another. Knowing your child’s potty personality can help you figure out how to pique their interest and keep them engaged in the potty training journey.

●Look at your gear. If you’re using a regular toilet, make sure you have a child-size potty seat that makes your toddler feel comfortable. A toilet can be big and a little scary for some kids — especially with that loud flush. If you don’t think the regular toilet is working, try a portable potty chair. Of course, if you’re not having success with a potty chair, trying out the regular toilet is worth a try too. Ask your child what they feel more comfortable using.

●Having a child with potty training resistance can be challenging, but it isn’t worth the stress or long-term effects of turning the journey into a battle. Focus on the positive, be patient and try to stay positive. Save the debates for the teenage years when it’s time to talk curfew!


Post time: Mar-06-2024