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Toileting fears

Resource Type

Parent Handouts and Info - Parent

Description

Fears about using the toilet are normal. Parents can try these suggestion to reassure children and keep toilet training on track. Elimination DTW

Ages

All Ages

Age Groups

Toddlerhood (1-3), Preschool/Kindergarten (3-5), School Age (6-12)

Web Address

http://resources.childhealthcare.org/cocoon/dtw/parent-text/elimination/toileting_fears.html

Languages

English

Toileting fears

Toileting fears

If your child has fears related to using the potty talk about them. Some kids fear falling into the toilet. Others fear losing their genitals in the toilet. These fears are normal. Reassure your child. Tell them to sit backwards for stability. Let them know that their genitals are 'theirs forever'. Tell boys that "Your penis is yours forever; no one can ever take it away. When you are big like daddy, your penis will be big too!" Tell girls that "Your vagina is yours forever; no one can ever take it away. When you are big like mommy, your vagina will be big too!"

Some kids fear letting their stools go because they don't know where water from the toilet goes. For children under age 4, tell them about the "Poop Party" under the house. Tell them that poops want to go to the party. Act disappointed that his poops don't go to the poop party. Ask other family members if their poops go to the party (with coaching for an excited "yes"). If your child is older than 4, explore the toilet and its pipes to increase your child's sense of control.

If your child is still fearful of using the toilet, try making a scrapbook about toilets. Visit different kinds of toilets and discuss that they all work the same way. Have your child practice sitting on the potty or toilet with their clothes on. Make this a calm time by reading a book or listening to music. After your child is comfortable, progress to sitting naked. After your child is able to pee, try pooping. You can reward your child with M&M's. Give 1 M&M for sitting, 2 for urinating, and 3 for pooping in the toilet. If problems continue, talk with your pediatrician.

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