Help! Potty Training Struggles with 3-Year-Old

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses challenges faced by parents during the potty training process for a 3-year-old, particularly in light of recent changes in the child's routine. Participants share personal experiences and various strategies they have employed to address similar issues.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of their daughter regressing in potty training after her older siblings started school, expressing frustration and uncertainty about how to proceed.
  • Another participant notes that changes in routine can disrupt a child's potty training progress, sharing their method of using a timer to encourage regular bathroom visits.
  • One user suggests that if the child is upset about going to the toilet, it may be worth checking for a urinary tract infection, as pain could be causing avoidance of the toilet.
  • Another participant mentions that potty training can be a control issue for children, as it is one of the few areas they can manage independently.
  • One user proposes the idea of offering incentives, such as special rewards or attention, to motivate the child during potty training.
  • Another participant shares that using stickers and treats like yogurt raisins worked for their children during potty training.
  • One participant mentions returning to using M&M's as a reward, suggesting that the issue may be related to control and stubbornness.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the causes of the potty training struggles, with some attributing it to routine changes and others suggesting control issues. No clear consensus emerges on a single solution.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences of parents navigating potty training challenges, particularly in relation to changes in family dynamics and routines.

Who May Find This Useful

Parents or caregivers of young children currently experiencing potty training challenges may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant.

Jennie4PC
Messages
3,348
I am coming here to see if anyone has any advise they can give me. My DD who is 3 has been going to the potty faithfuly #1 since May and #2 since the beginign of Aug. As of last week she has not gone at all in the potty. I refuse to go back to pull ups, I just dont know what to do. I was thinking it was cause her older siblings started school, which may totally be it but I dont think I can do it anymore.
 
First take a deep breathe and it will get better.

It probably is from drastic change in schedule, I know my youngest did go backwards a little, not as long as this, but change screws up their little systems.

What I did, after pulling my hair out, was go back to timer method and I started, when she got up, on potty, we ate breakfast and back on potty. Then for every half hour to hour we were back on potty, even if she said she didn't have to go.

I almost got to point of making her naked so she's be more aware of it, but thankfully the timer thing worked with Margo.

I also got the book everyone poops when oldest would do #1 in potty but did #2 in her pants. I was at dentist and talking about this and she recommended this book, it's as old as sin, but it worked!!

Good luck and I'll say a few potty prayers for you and your little one.

HTH,

Lisa
 
Not sure if she's peeing and pooping in her underwear or just peeing ... if it's just urine and she seems super upset to be led to the toilet then you might want to have her checked for a urinary tract infection. If it hurts to pee, she may be associating the toilet with the pain and trying to "hold it" as long as she can.If it's both peeing & pooping in her underwear, then I agree it's probably related to the schedule change and her big sister being gone during the day. ;)
 
it's the one thing left that she can control.....
 
Is there some big thing she could earn? Something that gives her special attention?
 
Stickers on the calendar over the the toilet, yogurt raisins and cool/pretty big kids underpants ~ worked for all three of mine!!!!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Thanks for all the suggestions. DH and I decided to go back to the m&m's. I am hoping this is just a control thing. She can be pretty stubborn.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some signs that my 3-year-old is ready for potty training?

Some common signs that your 3-year-old may be ready for potty training include showing interest in the bathroom habits of others, staying dry for longer periods, expressing discomfort with dirty diapers, and being able to follow simple instructions. Additionally, if your child can communicate their needs verbally or through gestures, they may be ready to start the process.

How can I make potty training less stressful for my child?

To make potty training less stressful, create a positive and encouraging environment. Use praise and rewards for successes, and avoid punishment for accidents. Establish a routine by taking your child to the potty at regular intervals, and make it fun by allowing them to choose their own potty or underwear. Patience and consistency are key during this process.

What should I do if my child refuses to use the potty?

If your child refuses to use the potty, it’s important to remain calm and not force the issue. Try to understand their fears or anxieties and address them gently. You can also take a break from potty training for a few weeks and then try again. Sometimes, waiting until your child shows more readiness can lead to a smoother experience.

How can I handle accidents during potty training?

Accidents are a normal part of potty training, so it’s important to handle them with understanding. Stay calm and reassure your child that it’s okay and part of learning. Avoid scolding, as this can create anxiety around using the potty. Instead, encourage them to try again and remind them of the successes they’ve had.

What are some helpful tools or products for potty training?

There are several helpful tools and products for potty training, including child-sized potties, potty seat adapters for regular toilets, and fun training pants. Books and videos about potty training can also engage your child and make the process more relatable. Additionally, reward charts can motivate your child by tracking their progress and celebrating their successes.

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