It can be one of the most frustrating parts of potty-training: just when you think you have it all under control and moving along, your child starts to regress, has accidents or even starts to demand a diaper again! This episode of The Real Parenting Show with Dr. Pete & Sara takes you through the entire process to help you understand regression, deal with it and start moving forward again.

Regression is often a completely normal reaction by your child. Some of the causes of regression are:

  • Stressful events (might create general fear, anxiety and/or opens back up some older fears specific to potty)
  • Losing focus after mastering a skill (no longer a priority – too involved in new things)
  • Physical issue (UTI, bout of diarrhea, constipation or other things – check with doctor)
  • Experience of shame or humiliation (perhaps secondary to an accident)
  • Skill not yet really mastered – parent loses focus, assumes too much skill

So what’s a parent to do about it? First, says Dr. Pete, is to refocus on the tried and true strategies you’d used when first potty training your son or daughter – positive attention and prompting. You can start incorporate some relaxation methods into your routine, like reading a book or listening to music in the bathroom, and make sure your child experiences the natural consequences of an accident (having to clean up) without punishment. You may think it’s all about your child having a stubborn streak, but getting into a power struggle with your child about going on the potty is a battle you will not win.

Lastly, says Dr. Pete, don’t go back to diapers! Why? Download the show now and find out!

Remember, even though you may not always feel like it, you are the most influential person in your child’s life! If you have any questions or topics you’d like to suggest for future shows, please comment on this blog or call 877.980.2828. Click below to listen to all of Dr. Pete’s straightforward advice and practical tips for real parents raising real kids in the real world, and we hope you’ll subscribe to get our podcast each week.

Dr. Pete and Sara are also the co-authors of Stress-Free Potty Training, A Commonsense Guide To Finding The Right Approach For Your Child (AMACOM Books, 2008). We include an entire chapter on potty training sensitive children who may be regressing.

Please note that nothing on The Real Parenting Show should be construed as professional psychological advice specific to you or your child. If you have concerns for anyone in your family, it’s important to make an appointment with a licensed mental health professional in your local area.

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