The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. After a weekend packed with potty training, your little one has learned how to use the potty, and you’re ready to toss the last diaper. You’re filled with pride, and so is your child. Maybe you even celebrated with a small gift for your little star and a nice glass of wine for yourself.
But wait! Even though your child is happily peeing on the potty without a hitch, when it comes to pooping, they seem to hit a wall. The struggle is real!
When I found myself in this situation, I thought I was the only parent whose child flat-out refused to poop on the potty. It was a complete shock since my kid picked up peeing and wearing underwear much more quickly than I’d anticipated. In fact, he was even dry at night just a week after we started training.
However, pooping was a different story entirely. There was no clear reason, but he simply wouldn’t do it. Thankfully, he had impressive muscle control, so instead of having messy accidents, he just held everything in. Not ideal.
Eventually, with the support of our pediatrician, who reassured me that this phase would pass, I had to bring back the diapers for him to poop in. This went on way longer than I had expected, but eventually, he ditched those diapers for good. It was a long process, and yes, it even involved a rather creative solution: cutting a hole in the bottom of his diaper so he could sit on the potty while still wearing it.
If I managed to navigate that, I’m confident you can get through anything. Here are some insights I gathered throughout my potty training journey:
1. Facilitate Pooping, Even If It Means a Setback
There’s a tricky cycle for kids who withhold their poops. When they hold it in, they can end up with tummy aches and discomfort when they finally do go, leading them to remember that pain and refuse to try again. You need to get them to poop, even if that means reverting to those dreaded diapers temporarily.
2. Gentle Laxatives Can Be Helpful
Seriously, getting them to poop is essential. Do whatever it takes to encourage those poops to come out easily and regularly. Whether it’s a doctor-recommended children’s laxative or dietary changes, we found success with prunes and adding flaxseed oil to fruit smoothies.
3. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Professional Help
When I noticed blood in my son’s stool (yikes!), I took him to the pediatrician. She explained that the blood was due to fissures from withholding and assured me that making the experience of pooping more comfortable was key. This is a common issue, especially among boys, and she reassured me that he would eventually become diaper-free.
4. You’re Not Alone in This
I thought my son was the only one who was holding onto his poops for so long, which made me feel embarrassed. It turns out, many parents have gone through this, and knowing that took a huge weight off my shoulders.
5. It Will Eventually Pass
Now, my son has successfully moved past diapers, and his poops are regular and easy. It was just a matter of time for him to adjust to using the potty instead of his diapers. Toddlers are creatures of habit, and some need a bit more time than others to adapt to new routines.
So, give your child the extra time and support they need, and don’t compare their journey to others who seem to have it all figured out. Many kids face similar challenges, and I wish more parents would openly discuss this to normalize the experience.
And rest assured, there’s absolutely no chance your child will be heading off to college in diapers. I promise.
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Summary
Potty training can come with its challenges, especially when it comes to pooping. Don’t be discouraged if your child resists this part of the process. By being patient, seeking professional advice, and using gentle solutions, you can help your child feel comfortable about pooping on the potty. Remember, you’re not alone, and this phase will pass!