Potty Training Regression: Why It Happens & How to Get Back on Track 🚽🔄
So, your kiddo was rocking the potty game… and then BAM—suddenly, accidents everywhere. 😱
Welcome to potty training regression. It’s frustrating, messy, and can make you question your sanity. But don’t worry—it’s totally normal! And the good news? You can get back on track with a little patience and the right approach.
Let’s dive into why potty training regression happens and—most importantly—how to fix it!
🚨 Why Do Kids Regress in Potty Training?
There are several reasons your little one might suddenly boycott the toilet:
1️⃣ Big Life Changes – A new sibling, moving to a new house, starting daycare—even a change in routine can throw them off.
2️⃣ Stress or Anxiety – If your toddler is feeling overwhelmed, they might cling to old habits for comfort—including ditching the potty.
3️⃣ Illness or Constipation – If going to the bathroom was painful (like from constipation), they may start avoiding the potty altogether.
4️⃣ Too Much Pressure – If they feel pushed to use the potty, they might rebel—because, well, they’re toddlers.
5️⃣ Distraction & Busyness – Sometimes, toddlers are just too busy playing to bother with a bathroom break.
🛠 How to Get Back on Track
Now that we know why regression happens, here’s how to turn things around.
1️⃣ Stay Calm & Be Patient 🧘♀️
I get it—regression is frustrating. But getting upset will only make it worse. Stay positive and remind them:
➡️ “Accidents happen, no big deal! Let’s try again next time.”
They need to feel safe and supported, not shamed.
2️⃣ Bring Back the Potty Training Chart & Rewards 🎉
If stickers and rewards worked the first time, bring them back!
✅ A sticker chart for every successful potty trip
✅ A small prize after a certain number of successes
✅ Lots of cheering and high-fives
✨ Need a cute potty chart? Check out Potty Time Adventures by Lil ADVENTS or Potty Training Chart for Toddlers.
3️⃣ Reintroduce Training Pants (But Not Forever!) 🩲
If accidents are frequent, consider using training pants (like Paw Patrol or Disney Princess Training Pants) for a short time.
🚨 But don’t rely on them too long! Remind them, “Big kids use the potty, not training pants.”
4️⃣ Set a Timer & Offer Frequent Potty Breaks ⏰
If they’re too distracted to stop and go, help them out!
⏳ Set a potty timer every 30–60 minutes.
🚽 Ask, “Do you need to go potty?” instead of waiting for them to tell you.
👉 Try using a fun potty watch that reminds them with lights and sounds.
5️⃣ Address Any Fears or Discomfort 🚑
Is your child constipated or afraid to poop? That could be the issue!
💩 For constipation: Increase fiber & water intake, and try a natural stool softener if needed.
😨 For potty fears: Make the toilet fun! Let them flush, pick out a fun potty seat, or even read Daniel Tiger’s Potty Time!
6️⃣ Stay Consistent & Don’t Go Back to Diapers 🚫
If your child was fully trained before, avoid going back to diapers. It sends the message that potty training was optional.
Instead, stay consistent—even if it means cleaning up more accidents for a little while.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Regression is Temporary!
Potty training regression is frustrating, but it’s just a phase. Stay calm, stay consistent, and your little one will get back on track.
✨ Have you dealt with potty training regression? What worked for you? Drop a comment below!
🚽 Need more potty training help? Check out The Best Potty Training Must-Haves!