One in Five Parents Encounter Toilet Training Challenges, Report Finds

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The transition from diapers to toilet training remains a significant milestone for young children and their parents. A recent report from the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital underscores the challenges associated with this developmental stage. According to the findings, one in five parents report their child experiences potty anxiety during the training process, and another 20% indicate that the journey was more difficult than they anticipated.

The report, based on a nationally representative poll involving 820 parents of children aged one to six, reveals that while more than half of parents initiated toilet training around the age of two, 21% began earlier, and 22% delayed the process until age three. Dr. Susan Woolford, Co-Director of the Mott Poll and a pediatrician at the University of Michigan, emphasizes that the timing of potty training can greatly influence its success. "Parents need to consider various factors when deciding when to start, such as the child’s readiness and family circumstances," she stated.

The study highlights that readiness signs can include the ability to stay dry for extended periods, interest in the bathroom, and basic self-dressing skills. Common challenges reported by parents include a child’s refusal to cooperate, busy family schedules, and coordination issues between home and daycare. Additionally, regression in toilet training is a frequent issue, with approximately one-third of parents noting that their child seemed trained but then reverted to previous behaviors.

Woolford notes that the struggles can stem from various fears, such as anxiety related to flushing noises or discomfort with adult-sized toilets. "Potty training isn’t a linear process; understanding that setbacks are normal can help parents remain patient," she advises. Children may face difficulties during stressful transitions, like the arrival of a new sibling or moving to a new home.

To support their children, parents have employed a range of strategies. The most common include regularly taking the child to the toilet, offering rewards, and allowing diaper-free periods during the day. Some parents opted for the 'three-day potty training' method, which, while effective for some, can be overwhelming for others. Woolford recommends creating a low-pressure bathroom environment to alleviate anxiety, suggesting that simple tools like sticker charts and a child-sized potty can enhance the experience.

"Consistency, encouragement, and a supportive atmosphere are key to successful potty training," Woolford concluded. If children continue to struggle, especially if there are signs of pain or ongoing anxiety, parents are advised to consult their pediatrician for further guidance.

This report sheds light on the complexities of toilet training and the diverse experiences of parents, emphasizing the need for understanding and patience during this significant developmental stage.