Potty Training Regression

I know regression can be pretty frustrating, especially when a child was doing 'everything' perfectly as your daughter was. Regression (back to square one!) is usually more of an emotional issue rather than a physical issue. And it's more likely to occur during a period of stress: starting a new daycare or preschool, being separated from a parent, experiencing the death of a family member or pet, acquiring a new sibling or witnessing an increase in parental arguments.

Oftentimes, if a child's stress level goes up, her potty prowess goes down. To reverse your daughter's backsliding, give her some more time in her disposable pull-ups while she emotionally adjusts to the change. Be clear that this is a temporary measure, and empathize with her by saying, "When we go through a difficult time, it can be hard to remember to use the potty. For now, wear your pull-ups. In a few weeks you'll feel better and ready to use the potty again."


For more potty training advice, check out:
Potty Training Tips from the Potty Pro, Teri Crane
The Naked and $75 Potty Training Method
Potty Training Resistance

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