Problems With Potty Training
Potty training is one of those milestones of childhood that all parents rejoice in reaching. However, the journey is not always -- or even usually -- a smooth one. In fact, there are some very common problems with potty training that, while frustrating, are manageable with the right techniques.
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Considerations
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The main consideration when potty training is whether the child is ready. There are some signs of readiness to look for, including the child staying dry for a few hours before wetting or soiling the diaper. The child should be able to express his need to go potty, and have the ability to follow simple directions. He should be able to pull his pants up and down. Potty training will be most successful if the child likes to imitate adults and older children and please them.
Time Frame
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When is the best age to potty train? For many children, the range is 2 to 2-1/2 years of age. However, some children as young as 18 months can be successfully potty trained, while others may be at least 3 before they are truly ready. Pay more attention to signs of readiness than chronological age for the best success.
Problems
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If a child is not ready to be trained, you'll likely encounter problems.
A flat-out refusal to try could indicate a power struggle between parent and child. Back off for a bit, then try offering rewards and positive experiences. This will help the child feel more in control.
If the child plays with the toilet, toilet paper or even feces, give more time to the process. Supervise her closely and praise her when she does what she's supposed to.
If the child has accidents even after sitting on potty, she may not have enough muscle control yet. If so, she's not ready for potty training.
If the child had been doing well, then suddenly regresses, it could be a sign that his schedule or lifestyle has been upset.
Misconceptions
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Potty training is not simple for most families, and accidents are part of the learning process. Disciplining or punishing a child for accidents will not help the training process, and will almost certainly hamper it. Never embarrass, chide, yell at or punish for accidents, no matter what. Praise and rewards, however, are excellent motivators to help a child master this skill.
Warning
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Child can have fears about potty training. Perhaps they are afraid of the flushing, of falling into the potty, or of losing a part of themselves when they go potty, especially with bowel movements. If a child is especially fearful of using the potty for bowel movements, she may withhold eliminating and become constipated. A hard stool is painful to pass and makes the fear worse. To help with constipation, make sure the child has plenty of the right food in his diet to keep the stool soft.
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