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Potty Training Tips for Bowel Momement Resistance

If you are a parent of young children, few things try your patience more than potty training. Many children struggle, in particular, with resisting having their bowel movements in the toilet. This article addresses the three main causes of bowel movement resistance and helpful methods to combat these hurdles.

  1. Discomfort

    • It is not uncommon for a child to experience constipation or other changes in their bowel movements stemming from a change in their eating habits. Sometimes all it takes is one bad experience to create the fear of a repeat the next time they use the toilet. When potty training, make sure to give your child plenty of fluids (apple juice is a great laxative if needed) and feed your child foods that will make things move a little smoother. This may help prevent a repeat and keep the experience less painful.

    Dread

    • There are many reasons a child may dread using the toilet. Whether they've had a previously bad experience or they're just afraid of flushing, fear of using the toilet can be overcome through practice and a little reassurance. If the size of the toilet is scary, get a smaller toilet or a seat for your current toilet that will help the child feel more comfortable. Also, try to keep your cool, so that none of the dread of toilet training results from a negative interaction with you. You are your child's biggest cheerleader and can help them overcome many of their fears.

    Delay

    • Related to both discomfort and dread, many children who have had negative BM experiences will attempt to delay or avoid using the toilet in hopes of preventing a repeat of the experience. Some children, however, are simply preoccupied with whatever activity they're currently engaged in because it is much more fun to them than breaking to use the bathroom.
      Fortunately for parents, it is often physically obvious to us when our children need to use the bathroom---whether they hold themselves, cross their legs or do a little dance. Be aware of your child throughout the day and watch for the telltale signs so you can help them make it on time. Or offer an enticing reward when they use the toilet instead of their underwear.

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