Major update for tone, accuracy and latest guidelines, along with a med review.
Your toddler has no problem peeing in the potty.
But when it comes to number two, thats a whole different story.
Your child might just sit and sit with no result.
Have a little patience (okay, a lot).
Eventually, your child will master this potty training skill too.
Why do some toddlers refuse to poop when potty training?
In the meantime, there are ways to get your toddler closer to the big finale.
The same goes for the step stool, which should be steady as a rock.
Have him drink plenty of fluids too, especially water.
Then, when hes ready, ask him if he wants to push down on the lever himself.
It can make him feel better about the separation.
Do some test runs.Practice pooping by doing some test runs with toilet paper only.
Be matter-of-fact (but clear about whats flushable) during the process, though.
Try reading books likeEveryone Poops,Wheres the Poop?andWe Poop on the Potty!.
Then say: Poop goes in the potty.
That will help him understand where he’s supposed to poop.
Work with your toddler’s schedule.Pay attention to when your child normally has bowel movements.
Maybe he goes every day after his nap or right before bedtime.
Take your soon-to-be potty pooper (fingers crossed) to the potty at the time he usually goes.
When you spot one of those signs, let your child know it means hes about to poop.
Then take him to the potty.
Let him know what youre doing (Mommys going poop in the potty).
Make potty breaks enjoyable.
A little distraction may help make it happen.
Praise every step.Dont wait for your sweetie to poop in the potty before you pour on the accolades.
Give him props whenever he accomplishes a task youve assigned (or even tries).
Claps, high fives, hugs or stickers on a potty chart can go a long way.
Also, dont forget verbal praise.
For example, Good job letting Mama know you have to go potty!
or Arent you proud of yourself for sitting on the potty?
That will only cause him more stress, which will make things even tougher.
Remember, your child is new to this and in the learning phase.
Keep your cool, clean up the mess and let your little one retry next time.
Then lay off the topic, and let him feel like hes in the drivers seat.
Hes constantly straining when trying to poop.
His bowel movements are small, dry pebbles.
Your toddler hasnt had a bowel movement in days.
Your childs underwear is stained with poop, which can be a sign of constipation.
Theres blood in the stool.
Your child is also experiencing vomiting or has eating or weight issues.
Your toddler still won’t poop on the toilet after two or three months of trying.
Although youre probably beyond ready to be done with poopy diapers, be patient.
Remember, kids develop different skills at their own pace.
Be encouraging toward and supportive of your little one during this process.
