5 Big Potty Training challenges – Potty training can sometimes progress smoothly without any struggles for both parents and children. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and we often receive questions from parents about how to handle certain challenges and situations. In this blog, we’ll discuss the 5 biggest potty training challenges and how to address them in a positive way to overcome them together.
Challenge 1: Resistance to using the potty
Some children struggle to adapt to the idea of using a potty. This could be due to fear of the potty or simply a lack of interest in the entire potty training process. And that can be quite challenging. A diaper may still feel much more comfortable for a child, even if they show enough signs that they are ready for potty training.
How to overcome potty training challenges like this: Let your child help choose the potty, toilet seat reducer, and possibly the step stool. This gives them control over the situation, and if you make the preparation a fun activity together, the motivation to potty train will also grow. You can also decorate the potty together with stickers to make it even more appealing. Another way is to demonstrate how you use the potty, so your child feels more comfortable with the idea. You can do this with your child’s favorite stuffed animal, for example.
Challenge 2: Regression in behavior
Unfortunately, some children will experience a regression in their potty training. This can have various causes such as feeling too much pressure or stress. But it can also be due to a change in their environment, such as a new teacher or a new bed. Something small can be the trigger for more accidents. Another common cause is missing the rewards.
How to overcome potty training challenges like this: Try to find out the cause of the regression so that you, as a parent, can respond to the situation. Above all, remain patient and apply the tips you learned during potty training. React overly enthusiastic to the successes and pay as little attention as possible to the accidents. You could even involve your child in cleaning up the accident. A regression is often short-lived.
If a regression persists and accidents continue, it’s a good idea to check if there is no other cause such as a urinary tract infection. Sometimes, a bowel problem can also cause accidents with urine. It’s always good to rule out these things first. And if you’re in doubt, it’s never wrong to pay a visit to the doctor just to make sure.
Challenge 3: Nighttime accidents
We’ve received a lot of questions recently about nighttime potty training and how to teach this to a child. Unfortunately, this cannot be trained because children have no control over their bladder and bowel movements when they sleep. It can be difficult to determine when a child is ready to become nighttime potty trained. Nighttime dryness occurs after a child has become potty trained during the day, but for some children, it may take until the age of 6 or 7 before they are completely dry at night.
How to overcome potty training challenges like this: Let your child know that nighttime accidents are normal and remain calm and positive. Reduce the amount of drinks you give your child before bedtime, and make sure they go to the bathroom one or two times before bed. For more tips on how to encourage nighttime potty training, you can read this blog.
Challenge 4: Struggle for independence
Some children want to show their independence and refuse help with potty training. These children resist and want nothing to do with the approach you have for potty training.
How to overcome potty training challenges like this: Give your child space to be independent and involve him or her in the preparation so that they can get used to the approach. So make sure your child knows the correct instructions and routines before you start. Also, explain that you are going to do it together as one team, but that the goal is for them to be able to go potty independently later on.
A fun and motivating training can be very helpful, such as our Potty Training Box, for example. This not only motivates your child but also encourages parents. How nice would it be if you could look back on this process together with a lot of pleasure?
Other potty training challenges?
If the potty training challenges you’re facing isn’t listed here or you have other potty training problems, feel free to send us a message. Let us know in the comments below, post your question in our Facebook Support Group if you’ve ordered our Potty Training Box, or send us a message through our social media channels like Instagram and Facebook. And we will help you facing these potty training challenges.