Achieving potty training success can be an exciting milestone for both toddlers and parents. However, sometimes potty training itself isn’t quite the end of the journey. This past weekend I was reminded of this when my daughter contracted a bladder infection from refusing to use the potty consistently. Watching her in pain was not at all a fun process, but by being aware of several potential post potty training pitfalls, you can be vigilant in helping your child address these issues before they become problems.

Environmental Changes
Often, changes in surrounding environments can induce stress on children that can lead to issues, and in some cases, potty training regression. Environmental changes can take on a variety of different forms but can include moving homes, a change in schools or day care providers, or even extended travel.

With environmental factors, you aren’t often able to change the cause, but you do have some control over the effect. They keys to avoiding issues in this area that can lead to potty training problems are 1.) consistency in potty training routines, habits, and behaviors and 2.) providing a sense of positive excitement about the change. If your child gathers anticipation and excitement about the upcoming changes, there is less chance that this will interfere with other areas of their development, such as potty training.

New Siblings
This is closely related to environmental changes, however, the arrival of a new sibling can cause stress for a toddler which can cause them to lose interest in potty training and even occasionally have “accidents” for parental attention, whether negative or positive. If you have a new sibling on the way or one who has just arrived, be sure to continue to lavish praise and attention on your toddler even though the demands of a newborn are time-consuming. And rather than split up and have mom with the newborn and dad with the toddler, your child really needs attention from both parents.

Also, show your toddler just how helpful they can really be during this transition. Make them feel as though they have a necessary role in the baby’s life. With respect to potty training (or any other skill which you want to reinforce with your older child), one technique we used commonly was “watch your sister”. If we wanted our oldest to be proud of potty training or dressing herself, we would hold the baby and say “Now, watch how your big sister is such a big girl and can do _____ on her own.” She was always very proud to show off her new skill!

Parental Separation
Unfortunately, parental separation is not an uncommon occurrence and this can be a stressful time for children. This can lead to issues and regression in potty training along with many other areas. The keys here are love and consistency. During any type of family turmoil, you need to shower your child with love and affection. Additionally, keep your child’s routines consistent as much as possible. This extends beyond potty training into all areas of their day-to-day life.

Constipation and Illness
Physiological conditions such as constipation and bladder infections can actually scare toddlers away from the toilet. Painful sensations during urination or bowel movements can induce stress and your child doesn’t yet have the  cognitive skills to recognize that going to the bathroom and the episode at hand are mutually exclusive events. If you suspect your child has constipation or a urinary infection, seek treatment as quickly as possible. For constipation, this could be as simple as an over-the-counter laxative, however, if you suspect a urinary infection you’ll need to visit your pediatrician as soon as possible for the appropriate treatment.

Again, by being aware of the potential post potty training complications, you can address them as soon as they come up and ensure that your child is back on track in no time!