How to Prevent Potty Training Regression

While potty training can be challenging and time consuming, a toddler's regression can be even more frustrating. Whether the regression is caused by stress or changes in a normal routine, a parent need not respond to mishaps with alarm. Consistency and patience during potty training can usually prevent regression back to diapers.

Things You'll Need

  • Calendar or day chart
  • Stickers

Instructions

    • 1

      Give your child occasional reminders to use the potty until she can master this task on her own.

    • 2

      Look for changes in your child's life that may trigger potty training regression. For example, if you are expecting another baby, your toddler may react by reverting back to diapers.

    • 3

      Ensure that your child is capable of handling both urination and bowel movements. The latter may be more difficult for your child to conquer and may cause him much stress during the training process.

    • 4

      Ease your child into changes in her routine. Such changes as starting school or moving to another house can be handled by giving your child support and reassurance during the stressful time.

    • 5

      Ask your child to tell you about any toilet-related mishaps that occur, such as a bowel movement that hurts or an accident that was punished at school.

    • 6

      Avoid letting your child wait until the last minute to go to the bathroom. Instead of disrupting play outside, schedule certain times during the day for him to go to the potty.

    • 7

      Have your child sit on the potty when she first wakes up and after meals.

    • 8

      Treat accidents with a matter-of-fact attitude. Clean up the mess without anger, and gently remind your child to use the toilet when he needs to go.

    • 9

      Establish a reward system using stickers on a calendar to keep track of accident-free days. Most children react positively to this kind of reinforcement and recognition.

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