My Kid Won't Poop in the Potty

Refusing to have a BM on the potty can come about for a variety of reasons. Fear can be an issue and stools that are difficult to pass can be another. It may be contributed to by diet, not sitting long enough, not being able to relax, their activity level, or various other factors. It is helpful to help a child recognize that the grunting and squatting he is doing helps make a bowel movement and that is good.

You might consider not rushing to help your son get cleaned up after he soils himself. A little discomfort by spending time in a dirty diaper helps to prevent repeat occurrences. If all else fails, start suspending some of his "big-boy" privileges—favorite television programs, special treats, or a later bedtime.

Remember: Learning to poop on the potty takes two P's: practice and patience. You need a lot of both before a successful poop on the pot. To learn more secrets for becoming a super pooper, please check out my advice on Getting Your Kid to Poop on the Potty.


For more potty training advice, check out:
Potty Training Tips from the Potty Pro, Teri Crane
Refusing to Poop on the Potty
Child Won't Poop on the Potty

Talk to other potty training parents who are also in the pee-pee & poo-poo trenches on our Toddlers & Preschoolers Message Board!