What to do when your child experiences a regression in potty training – It can happen that a child experiences a regression in potty training. This can occur weeks or even months after potty training. However, it’s important not to confuse a regression with occasional accidents, which can happen until the age of 6 or 7 (on average). So, if your child has an accident, don’t panic! But let’s talk about regression. There can be various reasons why this happens, and we’ll discuss them below:
Change in your child’s situation
If your child experiences a regression in potty training and it feels like you’re back to square one with potty training, it could be because there’s been a change in your child’s environment. This could be something like a new teacher at daycare or school, a new bed, or perhaps a renovation at home. Additionally, a new sibling could also be a cause of regression. What may seem very natural or not even noticeable as a change for us as parents can be the cause of regression for your child.
In this case, it’s best to remind your child more often to use the bathroom. Also, don’t pay too much attention to accidents. Take a step back, react extra enthusiastically to successes, and avoid getting angry. Often, things will improve on their own after a few days. If not, there may be another reason.
Missing rewards or intensive attention
Another reason for regression in potty training could be that your child misses the rewards or intensive attention that they received during training. This is a common occurrence and happens regularly in families. In this case, you can bring back the reward system. You can start rewarding again, but focus on a different task that you can teach your child to shift the focus. For example, eating all their vegetables at dinner without complaining, going to bed without fussing, or another task they can learn. What task could your little one still learn?
Fatigue from potty training
This is also an explanation for regression in potty training. As a parent, it can be very frustrating, and you may even become frustrated, but don’t forget that a seven-day potty training is very intense, even for your child. So, as mentioned above, your child may literally be tired from the training.
Still, continue to reward and/or acknowledge the successes, and try to give as little attention as possible to accidents, ignoring them if possible. Try to make your child aware that it’s faster and easier to pee or poop in the toilet than elsewhere, where it has to be cleaned up. If accidents still occur, let them help with the cleanup. Often, this will give them a better understanding that this is not the right way.
In all cases, persevere, and you will see that patience pays off!
Seeking professional guidance
If you find that your child’s regression in potty training persists despite your efforts and strategies, it may be beneficial to seek professional guidance. A doctor can offer valuable insights and support tailored to your child’s specific needs. They can help identify any underlying issues contributing to the regression and provide appropriate interventions to address them. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance if you feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to proceed. Remember, you’re not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this challenging phase.
No idea why your child has a regression in potty training?
Also, check out our Instagram and/or Facebook page for more inspiration and information. You can also read our other blogs if the answer to your question isn’t here yet. Feel free to send us a message so we can answer it personally and provide advice and/or motivation.