For many parents, one of the most difficult aspects of potty training is dealing with the challenges which toddlers can face with regard to bowel movements. Once a potty training schedule is established, it is very common for children to reach success relatively quickly with urination, only to have an issue related to bowel movements derail the progress. If you’re in this situation, don’t fret. In this article, we’re going to explore a few potty training tips for facing these challenges and successfully helping your little one through them.

Help Your Toddler Recognize Cues

If your toddler happens to be experiencing problems successfully having bowel movements on the potty, one of the first steps is to ensure that he or she understands the physical sensations that indicate that it’s time to go. For many toddlers, the physical sensation associated with bowel movements is not quite as instinctive in terms of telling him or her what to do as those associated with the urge to urinate.

The first step is to recognize those cues that you can associate with the urge to have a bowel movement. For many toddlers, this means grimacing, quietly sneaking away for some private time alone, or having a far away look on their face. Once you are able to identify these cues, show your toddler to the toilet and let them begin to associate the sensation with the need to have a bowel movement.

Find a Schedule

Another helpful suggestion in getting your toddler comfortable with having bowel movements on the toilet during potty training is to establish a scheduled time each day. As is the case with adults, many toddlers will tend to have bowel movements at or around the same time each day. Try to discover when this happens over the course of a few days and set aside 10 minutes or so to sit with your child in the bathroom. Establishing a potty training schedule can create a routine which your toddler may begin to associate with the urge to have a bowel movement.

The Constipation Blues

Almost nothing can instill potty training anxiety in a toddler faster than having difficulty passing a bowel movement. It can very easily cause them to become anxious, scared, and upset, and in some cases can lead to potty training regression. If your child begins to have trouble, you need to find ways to make the process easier and eliminate these difficulties.

The first step is to evaluate your child’s diet. Many foods can increase the likelihood of constipation such as cheeses and large quantities of dairy. Ensure that your toddler is receiving an adequate amount of fiber in his or her diet through fruits, veggies, and whole grains. It’s also essential that they are consuming enough fluids while potty training, but avoid the empty calories in sugary drinks such as sodas that have no nutritional value.

If your child is having difficulty with bowel movements while potty training, try these three tips and you’re likely to be on your way to success in no time!