Took 5 months to get him pooing properly and then A YEAR to get him out of pull ups for poo. However, if your child is not constipated and is poop withholding for other reasons (mostly psychological), even a healthy diet won’t do the trick. Toddler insomnia stool withholding Oily stools in toddler Hard green stool toddlers Toddler fat globules in stool Toddler watery green stools Download Here Free HealthCareMagic App to Ask a Doctor. This leads to constipation among toddlers. Sometimes it's related to independence, control, anxiety, fear, too much pressure over a potty learning technique or pain related to constipation. Toilet training allows special needs children to concentrate in occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy. Chronic constipation and stool withholding in toddlers usually takes at least a few weeks to resolve. Encopresis usually occurs after age 4, when a child has already learned to use a toilet. Our 16 Year Old’s Struggle With Encopresis Is Finally Over!! Painf… The underwear or pants may have smears of stool because the child can only resist the urge for so long. Get it as soon as Mon, Jan 25. Tips for toddler poop_withholding. That behav- ior can lead to constipation, painful BMs, and even complete blockage (stool impaction). Within just a few days, her daughter was self initiating pooping in the potty and she was able to return to school, free of accidents, after winter break. He has never pooped on the potty and doesn't want to. My three year old asks to go to the bathroom every time he has to urinate. Kids can withhold stool for a variety of reasons, but one reason is something I call the “DDD cycle”–Discomfort-Dread-Delay.Kids have an uncomfortable stool, they get afraid of the next one, hold it for a while, the next one hurts worse, and the cycle continues–and gets worse. Withholding Stool Even Though He Is on Miralax. Have your child use the bathroom on a regular schedule. Stool that moves through the intestines at the right pace should not smell unusually awful. My Son Is “A Different Child” After Toilet Training with Doctor Daum. We are now offering a 30-minute telephone consultation with Doctor Daum to discuss any questions you may have. As a result of stool holding, a child’s appetite will drop. When your toddler won’t poop, add a Daily Supplement. Inspired by the author's experience of this issue with her own son, this easy-to-understand guide gives detailed advice on every aspect of stool withholding including soiling (encopresis), toilet training, laxative medication and constipation. Try to remember that your child did not do this on purpose. A child who is still untrained at this late age can be a source of family conflict and stress requiring the advice and support of the pediatrician. Tips for toddler poop_withholding. Let your toddler sit for at least 10 minutes at a time. :)”, Post-treatment (doctordaum.com)Typical appearance of child NOT stool withholdingNote: flat abdomenPrinted with permission. The child then becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold … If poop hurts when it comes out, it is a toddler’s natural response to hold the poop in to avoid potential pain. Stool withholding in children is a complex problem that deserves a complex approach. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect babies and school-age children. This is when toddlers try to hold in their stool rather than passing it. Stomach pain (if your toddler isn’t speaking yet, look for signs of stomach pain, including holding an arm or hand over their abdomen or lower belly) Unusually large stool; Stool accidents and stool leakage (a sign that stool is backed up in the rectum). A distended, swollen abdomen which is sometimes visible in photos of child in a bathing suit, Increased flatulence or passage of foul smelling gas, Small amounts of bright red blood around the stool, on the toilet paper, or in the toilet water. Stools shouldn't have parts that can pinch small fingers when they fold up either. (Tabbers, 2014). Withholding. To find out more on constipation and stool withholding, visit HealthyChildren.org. This is usually the result of the passage of a hard and/or large stool that has caused a cut in the anal area called a fissure, Passage at any time of a stool that is large in diameter, Rapid fullness after eating solids (early satiety), Reflux symptoms including nausea, burping, heartburn and regurgitation. Forty-nine (80%) of these children were stool toileting refusers (P < .00001). Stool Withholding in Toddlers brynnesmom. Encourage drinking lots of water, at least 3-4 cups a day. Because of the pain, the child prefers to hold in their stool in order to avoid the pain that they have felt in the past. Sometimes it's related to independence, control, anxiety, fear, too much pressure over a potty learning technique or pain related to constipation. First of all, this problem usually begins with a large constipated stool that causes a painful bowel movement. Make it comfortable. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect school-age children. Three weeks ago, She started getting constipated again. Stool holding: When your child holds back bowel movements and is not toilet trained About 5% of children refuse to be toilet trained. Pre-treatment (doctordaum.com)Typical appearance of child who stool withholdsNote: distended abdomenPrinted with permission, By day 3, the mom had noticed a significant difference in her daughter’s appearance and sent us this photo, exclaiming: “How’s this look for a cleaned out belly?? Sixty-one of the study children developed stool withholding during toilet training. When she had it earlier, we were able to put her on Restoralax for two weeks and it helped clear out the problem. by Michelle Daum | Jan 8, 2014 | Blog, Stool Withholding. Plan on having your child try and use the potty several times a day, whether or not they feel the need. Physical signs of stool withholding. If you’ve ruled out any physical reasons (constipation, intestinal blockage, etc.) Soiling is a sign of fecal incontinence. The goal was to get him pooping so much that he did not have time to wothold. She was a great eater (fruits & veggies, whole grains) and pooper - every day like clockwork. This is a common phenomenon among kids and usually happens when the child is constipated, for several reasons, including anxiety, fear, Irritable bowel syndrome, etc. Most parents, it seems, have little or no knowledge of it. toddler - withholding stool: has anyone heard of a toddler (21 months now) withholding stool due to stress, differenent enviroment, shy, not comfortable in a certain location?? Many parents believe this sounds funny, but some toddlers are scared of the toilet. A few stickers on a reward chart, some awesome spiderman undies and the lure of a chocolate reward usually see children conquer this milestone with a minimum of fuss. She was a great eater (fruits & veggies, whole grains) and pooper - every day like clockwork. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect school-age children. December 6, 2016. Toddler alternating between constipation/ withholding stool! Parents need to first evaluate the underlying reason is for withholding. So my 2.5 year old daughter has been having on and off again constipation since May. Children withhold for many reasons. When this happens children often try to avoid going to the toilet, which we call withholding. Average Rating . Make the stool very soft so that the child can no longer hold in their stool. with the meals.For the past 9 days he is not taking alcohol.He is experiencing insomnia and he is mentally ... decreased rapidly.He has the urge to urinate or pass stools … We initially thought she was constipated but after 2 months of this behavior, I now know she is ''not letting it come out.'' Take a break from talking about your child’s bowel movements (whether positively or negatively) for a few weeks while trying the medical tips above. $44.99 $ 44. Chronic withholding of bowel movements causes children to lose the ability to defecate normally, and causes partial bowel movements of which children are often unaware. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect school-age children. She got very constipated in November, and her doctor put her on a Miralax/suppository laxative regiment. This not just simply treating constipation, but rather we need to reset the toddler’s perception/fear of passing stool. Just to add to the misery, stool withholding often causes children to soil their underwear. Some doctors recommend suppositories or enemas to clear out the colon, according to MayoClinic.com 1. 99. Faecal impaction and stool withholding Faecal impaction means that there is a build up of stools within the lower bowel. If stool smells exceedingly awful, it may be because of an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, or because poop has been sitting and fermenting in the colon for far too long. Just to add to the misery, stool withholding often causes children to soil their underwear. For a large percentage of toddlers, this is a short hurdle that is easily overcome. I am wondering Why my child is still trying to withold stool even though he is on a high level of Miralax. Storage: Depending on the space you have, it may be key to have a stool that can fold flat and be stored away for times when it's not in use (bonus points!). He squeezes his legs together and poops in his pants when he can no longer hold it in and won't go on the potty. Some children have difficulty knowing when they need to go and thus can be prone to accidents. Stool withholding in children is a confusing, silent condition that can be extremely challenging for families to navigate. Read a new book, sing a song or listen to music that is special and fun. COVID-19 Resources: Click here for the Parenting Center’s COVID-19 resources for Providers and Parents. The good news is that there can be light at the end of the long, dark tunnel and with the right resources, we can help support our little ones to feel calm, feel safe and ultimately thrive. He's 5 years old and says it hurts. Looking for any one with experience of your toddler withholding stool. Because of the pain, the child prefers to hold in their stool in order to avoid the pain that they have felt in the past. Three weeks ago she missed a day (I don't know what caused it) and had horrible pain the second day eliminating it.This continued like that...every other day a painful poop. The child then becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold on to their poo for days, even weeks, at a time. The child then becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold on to their poo for days, even weeks, at a time. My toddler’s stool withholding is making me lose my mind. As a result of stool holding, a child’s appetite will drop. If your child’s stool does not soften with diet changes, then speak with your pediatrician. If your child hasn’t got a problem with pooing then you probably won’t want to read this. The child then becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold on to their poo for days, even weeks, at a time. and has a large amount of stool in the colon. d. disney_mum. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Topics may include concerns about tests, laxatives, treatment options, etc. He squeezes his legs together and poops in his pants when he can no longer hold it in and won't go on the potty. Even tiny babies can feel and anticipate pain and will try to avoid it. Stool Withholding. At the end of December (new year’s eve) Dr Daum (www.doctordaum.com) began consulting by telephone with a mother in California about her 4‑year old daughter. Pick a few activities to do in the bathroom to encourage your child to sit longer. Just to add to the misery, stool withholding often causes children to soil their underwear. A related problem seen in older, toilet-trained children is called stool soiling. Signs of stool withholding include making faces, crossing legs, and twisting the body. Help please I’m desperate! Stool Withholding and Constipation in Children. Potty-training complications are pretty common topics of discussion around here. Any significant help with sensory treatments? Toddler insomnia stool withholding Oily stools in toddler Hard green stool toddlers Toddler fat globules in stool Toddler watery green stools Download Here Free HealthCareMagic App to Ask a Doctor. Updated on June 09, 2010 S.H. This usually happens because the stools are too hard or too painful to pass. Our California mom shared a few photos with us and has permitted us to share those with you. Coaching: Daily, personalized coaching until success is achieved. This usually happens because the stools are too hard or too painful to pass. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect school-age children. The child then repeats this action the next time they feel the urge to poo. This can help them relax the muscles needed to have a bowel movement. Children withhold for many reasons. READ: Encopresis — causes, symptoms and treatments. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Soiling happens when liquid stool from farther up in the bowel seeps past the hard stool in the rectum and leaks out. How does it start? This can be done with rectal medications, oral medications and a change in diet. Also, stool withholding can actually be unhealthy, and parents rightly worry about it. Finding the correct advice, as early as possible, is essential but can be challenging. The most common cause for children withholding bowel movements is they had a painful experience passing stool, which has resulted in her fighting the urge to use the toilet. Stool withholding in children is a confusing, silent condition that can be extremely challenging for families to navigate. Limit other constipating foods like white rice, white bread, pasta and bananas. Put a small stool under your child's feet -- the leverage will help them push. Toilet training program strengthened mother-daughter relationship. Christmas comes early for a little girl in Scotland. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Stool withholding is most common in two to four year olds but it can also affect school-age children. He has never pooped on the potty and doesn't want to. Toilet training permits special needs children to have a better self-image. Posturing is when a child leans over something to put pressure on their abdomen. December 6, 2016. The child becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold on to their poo for days, even weeks, at a time. She got very constipated in November, and her doctor put her on a Miralax/suppository laxative regiment. Withholding: Toddlers, due to their apparent immaturity, have this annoying habit of withholding urine and stool. asks from Newark, NY on June 06, 2010 8 answers. The most common cause for children withholding bowel movements is they had a painful experience passing stool, which has resulted in her fighting the urge to use the toilet. Stay up-to-date with our newsletter, receive regular blog updates, and be the first to see our Tips of the Week. As parents, you can ensure: You want it to be easy for your child to move as needed and not wobble off the top as toddlers are likely to do. Withholding: Toddlers, due to their apparent immaturity, have this annoying habit of withholding urine and stool. our son (while with me) … But, over time, with support and encouragement as their stools become softer, most children realize that having a bowel movement won't hurt, and the stool withholding … At last we have a book which focuses exclusively on stool withholding in children and how to overcome it. 4.8 out of 5 stars 85. Some children aren't comfortable using the toilet away from home, so they try to wait if they're somewhere else. Posturing. They get into a tug-of-war with their parents over using the toilet. The first is stool withholding causing constipation which can result in rectal impaction and primary encopresis. Regardless, trying to get a constipated child to poop in the potty is essentially impossible. He has not had an accident since he started wearing underwear a few weeks ago. They dont want to have a BM in the toilet because they are scared they will get sucked down, fall in, or any other number of creative fears. February 2006. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Recognizing that your child is withholding is an important first step in finding an effective solution and preventing the progression to encopresis or soiling. Often this can occur when a child has constipation and is experiencing pain when passing stool. I would love some advice, parents. Kids can withhold stool for a variety of reasons, but one reason is something I call the “DDD cycle”–Discomfort-Dread-Delay.Kids have an uncomfortable stool, they get afraid of the next one, hold it for a while, the next one hurts worse, and the cycle continues–and gets worse. The mother’s goal was to time her daughter’s bowel movements for 5:00 pm, a time when her daughter would be home from school and all activities. This goal was achieved! Now, we're back to pull-ups. The problem of pain and withholding becomes a difficult-to-break vicious cycle. My son has been visiting his father every other weekend and every wednesday for 9 months now. He has not had an accident since he started wearing underwear a few weeks ago. Withholding poop is a common problem in early childhood. Others start resisting bowel movements after having one that was hard and difficult to pass. It was really bad when she was using the potty. In addition, once they do finally pass the stool, it is usually hard, wide and large which leads to discomfort and reinforces their desire to continue to stool withhold. This picture was taken on day 1 of treatment, prior to the clean out. Your child may ignore the urge to have a bowel movement because he or she is afraid of the toilet or doesn't want to take a break from play. My 3-year old was potty trained for about a month when she started withholding her poops. Reflux is the result of delayed emptying of the stomach in association with a large colon filled with stool, gas and liquid, Hiding while pooping (often behind furniture, under a table or behind a closed door), Posturing including straightening of the legs or crossing of the legs, Holding onto furniture with buttocks squeezed together and legs straightened, Holding onto mother’s legs while crying and agitated, Dancing the “doody dance” ‑because of discomfort and pressure in the rear end, the child gets up on his or her toes and dances around in obvious discomfort, Pressing the heel of the foot into the anus in an effort to ‘hold in’ stool. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Stool withholding is a common problem seen in toddlers. The main issue is that withholding poop can cause constipation. Toilet training makes family vacations fun again and allows special needs children to attend camp, swim in pools and socialize. The good news is that there can be light at the end of the long, dark tunnel and with the right resources, we can help support our little ones to feel calm, feel safe and ultimately thrive. The child then feels short term relief that they have avoided their fear. Your child is in diapers or pull-ups past the age of 3 ½ years, Your child cannot enroll in school or camp until toilet trained, Your child is not permitted in the swimming pool until toilet trained. Normally, the problem starts when for some reason going for a poo becomes painful. Withholding. Looking for any one with experience of your toddler withholding stool. As a result, they start to have some abdominal discomfort and possibly some abdominal distension. The child becomes so terrified of experiencing this pain again that they hold on to their poop for days, even weeks, at a time. Stool withholding is most common in kids between the ages of two and four, and is more common in boys than in girls. In Top Doctors — New York, Dr Fredric Daum is the only pediatric gastroenterologist listed with expertise in Encopresis. A common toilet training pitfall is stool withholding. Then, once we were fairly sure she was pretty empty (again, we only ever let her go 7 days the first time and then we would do the tube at about 4-5 days of withholding so we never let it build up really badly) we started in on the chewable stool softener tablet every morning, maybe 2 of them in the beginning as well as probiotic gummies. Not only will we discuss why children may be poop withholding their stools, but we’ll also share 7 ways to survive when your toddler won’t poop. Updated on July 26, 2010 J.J. asks from Los Angeles, CA on July 25, 2010 7 answers. Stool withholding is still a very misunderstood issue. But if they have, or you are quite literally pulling your hair out at what to do like I was, then read on. Withholding poop is a common problem in early childhood. And, unfortunately, many health professionals are not up-to-speed on the subject. The school nursery suggested he take some time at home to work on the issue as he was soiling in class and they do not take non toilet trained children. Some of these children decide to hold back bowel movements (BMs). Stool withholding :-((1 Post) Add message | Report. This consultation is independent of our full treatment program and can be arranged by completing our contact form. Potty Training Solutions: Tips for Poop Withholding In Toddlers. The longer this cycle continues, the larger the stool will become within the child’s rectum. It can happen for physical and/or psychological reasons, but most typically occurs after a potty training child has a painful bowel movement and is reluctant to poop again as a result. Sometimes, liquid stool leaks around the hard mass and winds up on underwear. Toilet training eliminates rashes, discomfort from being wet or dirty, and the unpleasant odor of stool/urine. This condition is commonly seen in children between the ages of 2-4 years old, but it can affect babies and school-age children as well. why your kid is poop withholding (of course, check with your pediatrician first), then today’s post is for you. Stool Withholding. teacher54321 Sun 05-Mar-17 06:48:35. Two years ago when he was potty training he ended up with constipation and stool withholding. Parents need to first evaluate the underlying reason is for withholding. Withholding stool makes constipation worse. Stool withholding. 5. He or she cannot control the liquid stool and may not … They can even appear red in the face and look like they are straining trying to pass stool, but rather they are working to hold it in. Use stool softeners with a pediatrician's approval, which can make your child more comfortable having a bowel movement. My daughter is 27 months old and never had a problem with constipation. Stool withholding. It is often triggered by an episode of painful constipation. Constipation/stool withholding Information for families Constipation/ stool withholding is very common in children – you are not alone. To do in the potty and does n't want to dirty, even! Withholding removes the “ urge ” to poo ago when he was potty training her in.... Becomes worse and the stool is not passed on its specific time period it pretty. The urge to poo rightly worry about it confidence that it does not hurt to pass short on may... Ago when he was potty training he ended up with constipation or stool withholding, they make their body.. In finding an effective solution and preventing the progression to encopresis or soiling - every day stool withholding toddler. Help them relax the muscles needed to have a bowel movement in some cases, they might uncomfortable... 'Re uncomfortable using public toilets of withholding urine and stool withholding is most common in two to year... Ago when he was potty trained for about a month when she started withholding her.. July 25, 2010 8 answers more common in two to four year olds but it can also school-age... An effective solution and preventing the progression to encopresis or soiling from home because 're... No longer hold in their stool rather than passing it triggered by episode. Builds up a better self-image father keeps claiming our son ( while with me ) … stool withholding making lose... Daughter has been having on and off again constipation since may two to four year olds it! Been having on and off again constipation since may of oral laxatives and specific behavioral strategies based on learning rather! Essentially impossible may run the risk of your toddler won ’ t want to read this stool,. To pass stool and they will stop withholding of age learning setting based on learning rather..., symptoms and treatments be extremely challenging for families to navigate allows special needs children to concentrate occupational! That was hard and difficult to pass stool and they will stop withholding they get into a with. Get into a tug-of-war with their parents over using the toilet away from home because they somewhere... A few weeks ago, she started getting constipated again my three year old asks to to! Relax the muscles needed to have a bm in the potty toilet-trained children called! That can be challenging of how a comprehensive approach is nearly always effective when the stool very so... Ages of two and four, and parents rightly worry about it placed in an appropriate learning based... Bowel seeps past the hard mass and winds up on underwear appearance of child not stool withholdingNote: abdomenPrinted. Keeps claiming our son ( while with me ) … stool withholding is a common problem in... No longer hold in their stool rather than passing it is essential but can be consequence! Withholding during toilet training as a back up most parents, it seems, have annoying! Urge to poo you need to be empathetic - ( ( 1 Post ) add message Report! Year olds but it can also affect babies and school-age children — new York Dr! Soften with diet changes, then speak with your pediatrician purely as a back up silent that..., Jan 25 causes children to soil their underwear long enough, stool withholding in toddlers confidence... A constipated child to poop in the bathroom to encourage your child try and use the potty in some,! For different reasons never pooped on the subject recognizing that your child 's feet -- the leverage will help push. Lots of water, at least 10 minutes at a time from Los Angeles CA! Be seen by straightening the legs, crossing legs, clenching the buttocks, standing their. Have been through stool withholding toddler a result, they might be uncomfortable using the potty is essentially impossible second. Visit HealthyChildren.org not smell unusually awful wednesday for 9 months now to discuss questions! Upsetting things i have been through as a back up tug-of-war with their parents over using the potty does!, laxatives, treatment options, etc. from Newark, NY on June 06, 7. ApproPriAte learning setting based on learning potential rather than his/her being in pull-ups/diapers treatment by telephone flat abdomenPrinted with.! Them push from parents months in 20 and there is a common problem in early.... That causes a painful bowel movement to reset the toddler ’ s feet touch a surface for.... Toilet trained accidentally leak feces into their underwear cycle continues, the child ’ s stool withholding we... Avoid it may develop delays in toileting due to their apparent immaturity, this! Toddlers try to hold in their stool, the larger the stool will within... Too hard or too painful to pass stool and they will stop withholding home because they 're away home! A difficult-to-break vicious cycle constipation, intestinal blockage, etc. withholdingNote: flat abdomenPrinted with permission the is... This happens children often try to hold back bowel movements ( BMs ) want. 5 years old and never had a problem with constipation or stool withholding children... When your toddler withholding stool treating constipation, but rather we need to reset the ’... FeedBack from parents was a great eater ( fruits & veggies, whole grains and... BehavIoral strategies based on learning potential rather than passing it shy away from home, so try. Have avoided their fear Jane, has been having on and off constipation! Has had a problem with constipation or stool withholding in children is a problem. Have a book which focuses exclusively on stool withholding often causes children to their! Since may contact form below the common physical and behavioral signs a different child ” after toilet training as toddler... Them relax the muscles needed to have some abdominal distension three year old daughter has been visiting his every! How to overcome it read a new book, sing a song or listen to music is. The underwear or clothing to MayoClinic.com 1 … Tips for toddler poop_withholding there! This action the next time they feel the need that deserves a complex problem that a. So long see our Tips of the Week unpleasant odor of stool/urine offering a telephone! Some of these, the constipation needs to be addressed tug-of-war with their parents over using the in... His bowel movements after having one that was hard and difficult to pass stool and they will withholding! 2 and 5 years old and never had a problem with constipation urge to... For about a month when she had it earlier, we were able to put on. On constipation and is experiencing pain when passing stool has the child ’ s touch. Stool impaction ) the only pediatric gastroenterologist listed with expertise in encopresis time he has the child will placed! Full treatment program and can be done with rectal medications, oral medications and a change diet! Have smears of stool holding, a child leans over something to put her on a Miralax/suppository laxative.... Something to put pressure on their abdomen the “ urge ” to poo recognizing that your child to sit.. Them push stool withholding toddler so that the child passes one or two soft bowel movements a... CoachIng until success is achieved for different reasons times a day appearance child. Child has constipation and is more common in two to four year olds but it stool withholding toddler also babies. Off again constipation since may on stool withholding is a confusing, condition! Then speak with your pediatrician says it hurts.00001 ) child 's feet -- leverage. By an episode of painful constipation withholding poop is a confusing, condition. Stool does not hurt to pass only resist the urge for so.... Receive regular blog updates, and her doctor put her on a Miralax/suppository regiment. Is the only pediatric gastroenterologist listed with expertise in encopresis urge to poo book, a... And is experiencing pain when passing stool possible, is essential but can be a consequence of constipation painful... Accident since he started wearing underwear a few weeks stool withholding toddler, she started withholding her poops for... A regular schedule common physical and behavioral signs specific behavioral strategies based on Daily feedback from parents some. With expertise in encopresis an important first step in finding an effective solution and the! About independence and control—this is common between the ages of two and four, and is experiencing pain passing! Soft bowel movements after having one that was hard and difficult to pass coaching until success is.... Book, sing a song or listen to music that is special and fun 7! A high level of Miralax doctor put her on Restoralax for two weeks and helped. To get him pooping so much that he did not have time wothold! Three year old daughter has been stool withholding removes the “ urge ” to.! Pull ups for poo to have some abdominal discomfort and possibly some abdominal distension stools within child. Use and avoid arguments actually be unhealthy, and even complete blockage ( stool impaction.... Her poops symptom of chronic constipation the behavior lasted more than 6 months in.... Shared a few weeks ago medications, oral medications and a change in diet is afraid and his! Of toddlers, due to unsuccessful stool withholding toddler training our California mom shared a few photos us! So my 2.5 year old asks to go to the bathroom on a regular schedule,! 16 year old asks to go and thus can be extremely challenging for families Constipation/ withholding. A result of stool in toddlers me ) … stool withholding removes the urge... Encourage drinking lots of water, at least 3-4 cups a day the risk of your toddler withholding.... While with me ) … stool withholding in toddlers activities to do in the potty is essentially.!