Just when you thought you bought your last diaper and had successfully maneuvered through potty-training, your child begins to regress! Why is this happening?
Toileting regression can be very frustrating and puzzling for many parents. Oftentimes, parents struggle more with toileting issues than with any other developmental concern. But, even though it may seem like these setbacks are a major issue, try to keep in mind that it will soon be ancient history!
Why does a child who has been successful with toileting start backsliding?
- Any significant change in the child’s routine: (i.e. a new sibling, starting daycare or preschool, moving, etc.) can cause daytime accidents as well as bedwetting.
- Sicknesses including urinary tract infections: If you feel that your child is wetting more frequently than usual she may have an infection. Your pediatrician can confirm this by a simple urine or blood test.
- Stress: Children are very perceptive to tensions and stress in their environment. They may not be able to vocalize their feelings, therefore stress may present itself as bedwetting or soiling.
- A control issue: Beginning around 24 months of age a child will begin a developmental phase of “progressive independence”. Oftentimes these independent behaviors result in various power struggles between the parent and child. If a child is constantly exposed to negative feedback, such as hearing “NO NO”, “Stop that now”, “You can’t have that”, etc. she may feel powerless and use toileting as a way of maintaining some control. Offer your child choices during the day. Let her decide between two different outfits, snacks, or activities. Of course, just make sure they are choices you can live with!
Remember during this developmental stage, the more you push, the less cooperative she may be. If toileting has become the major issue in your home, back off and relax for a while. You know that she is capable, so diminish the power struggle and follow her lead. She will probably be back on track soon!
If you continue to have concerns, however, please talk with your child’s pediatrician for reassurance, further testing, and advice.
