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Potty training can be difficult and frustrating when a child refuses to use the toilet. Here are some helpful tips for figuring out what is making them refuse to use the toilet and how to help make going to the potty more fun!
Figure Out What Is Keeping Them from Wanting to Use the Toilet
Many children experience some sort of fear when potty training whether it is a fear of the water, of falling in the toilet, or just of the sound of flushing. The first step is to find out what the fear is so you can help them. Once you know what they are afraid of you can make changes to their potty training to help them get over their fears. If it is a fear of falling in the toilet, try a smaller training potty they will feel safer on. If it is a fear of the water, drain some of all of the water out. There are many ways you can help your child feel safer while potty training.
Is your child avoiding using the toilet because it means giving up playtime? You can give your child things to do while they are in the bathroom like books and toys that are specifically kept in the bathroom. You can also reward your child for successful trips to the potty that will help them think of that reward instead of concentrating on their boredom.
Whether you are combatting fear, boredom, or something else while potty training, it is important to address and fix concerns with avoiding using the toilet so that your child can overcome and move past that avoidance. Everyone will be much happier when that happens!
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- How is/was potty training for you as parents?
- How do you know if your child refusing to use the toilet because he is scared or because he is bored? Or is there another reason?
- What are some ways you can help make potty time more fun? What books or toys would you recommend?
- What other challenges have you faced with potty training your children and what has helped the most?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
