Dealing with Potty Training Regression (and What Causes It)

Just when you thought your toddler had mastered potty training—surprise! Accidents start happening again. If you’re dealing with potty training regression, you’re not alone. It’s a common, frustrating, and completely normal part of the process for many families.

Whether your child is suddenly having frequent accidents, refusing to use the potty, or asking for diapers again, it can feel like a step backward. But with a little patience, empathy, and understanding of the why, you can help your child regain their confidence and get back on track.

What Is Potty Training Regression?

Potty training regression happens when a child who had previously made good progress with toilet training suddenly starts having more accidents, resisting the potty, or showing disinterest in the process. It can occur weeks or even months after they seemed “trained.”

Regression can be temporary and is often a reaction to something else going on in your child’s world.

Common Causes of Potty Training Regression

Understanding the root of regression can help you address it more effectively. Here are some of the most common triggers:

1. Major life changes
Big transitions—such as starting daycare, welcoming a new sibling, moving to a new home, or parental separation—can be overwhelming for toddlers. Even if the change seems positive to adults, it can be disruptive to a child’s sense of security.

2. Illness or physical discomfort
Constipation, urinary tract infections, or other illnesses can make using the toilet painful or uncomfortable, leading to accidents or refusal to use the potty.

3. Emotional stress
Anxiety, fear, or changes in routine can affect your child’s ability to stay consistent with potty habits. Sometimes they regress to seek comfort or regain a sense of control.

4. Pushing too hard, too soon
If potty training started before your child was fully ready, they might have complied at first but later resist once the novelty wears off or they feel pressure.

5. Seeking attention
For children feeling left out—perhaps due to a new baby or a busy schedule—regressing can be a way to get your attention, even if it’s not intentional.

What Not to Do

When regression happens, it’s easy to feel frustrated or discouraged. But how you respond can make a big difference.

Avoid:

• Punishment or shaming
  This can cause anxiety and prolong the regression. Accidents aren’t misbehavior—they’re signals your child needs support.
• Forcing or bribing
  Coercion often leads to power struggles. Instead, use positive reinforcement and give your child a sense of control.
• Labeling your child
  Avoid calling them “naughty” or saying they’re “not a big kid anymore.” This can damage their confidence and slow progress.

How to Handle Potty Training Regression

1. Stay calm and reassuring
Let your child know it’s okay and that learning isn’t always a straight line. “Sometimes we forget or have accidents, and that’s alright. I’m here to help you.”

2. Re-establish the routine
Reintroduce potty breaks at regular intervals, such as after meals, before naps, and before bed. Gently guide them without pressure.

3. Praise the effort, not just success
Encourage every step in the right direction—like sitting on the potty, telling you they need to go, or staying dry for a short period.

4. Address underlying issues
If there’s a physical problem (like constipation), talk to your pediatrician. If emotional stress is involved, try to reduce anxiety and provide extra comfort and reassurance.

5. Offer choices and independence
Empowering your child to choose their potty seat, underwear, or schedule gives them ownership and builds confidence.

6. Be consistent, but flexible
Consistency in routine and tone helps your child feel secure. But also be willing to take a step back if your child seems overwhelmed—sometimes a short break from training can help reset the process.

When to Seek Help

Most regressions resolve on their own within a few weeks. But if your child:

• Suddenly fears the potty intensely
• Is regularly withholding urine or bowel movements
• Experiences ongoing pain during bathroom use
• Shows no progress after consistent support

…it may be time to consult your pediatrician or a child development specialist.

Potty training regression doesn’t mean you or your child have failed. It’s just a detour—one that many toddlers take. With patience, understanding, and gentle guidance, your child will regain their confidence and return to progress when they’re ready.

Trust the process, meet your child with empathy, and remember: this is just one small chapter in their journey toward independence.