Potty training can be a challenging experience. Every child has different developmental processes, and this can require a lot of trial and error. Once your toddler begins to have consistently dry and clean diapers, it's normal to feel relief and be engulfed with a sense of pride. However, if you enroll your child in day care, you may notice that they start to regress to having accidents. Here's a closer look to help you better understand potty training regression. 

What Is Potty Training Regression?

Regression is when your child begins to have regular accidents after they've been staying dry and clean for a month or more. This usually means they'll need to use diapers again, at least for a little bit. This is nothing to be embarrassed or worried about, as potty training regression is completely normal. The best way to overcome the issue is to determine the cause and address it directly. 

Why Does It Happen?

There are several factors that can increase the risk of potty training regression. One of the biggest reasons is that your child may not have been fully potty trained to begin with. The most important sign of success is that your child expresses the desire to use the big-kid potty. 

Stress is also a major reason that many children experience regression. If your child is shy, starting a new day care can explain this stress. Distractions, fear, and anxiety can contribute to regression in some children, while medical factors may be the cause in others. Talk to your pediatrician to help ensure your child gets the treatment they need to address any possible underlying conditions.  

How Can You Help Your Child?

Helping your child overcome regression and lower the risk of accidents at day care will take some work. However, the most important thing you should keep in mind is that punishment for accidents will always cause more harm than good. 

Try to maintain a gentle tone, give them reminders throughout the day, and consider utilizing a type of reward system to get them excited about using the toilet. Give them encouragement when they use the bathroom and try to have patience at all times. 

Enrolling your child in Penn Garden Day Care Center Inc. is a great way to help supplement their education and development during their early ages. This day care serves residents from Penn Hills, Plum, Murrysville, and Monroeville, PA. They've curated a fun yet nurturing environment for children between the ages of 6 weeks and 12 years. As a state-licensed day care facility, they're committed to every child's social, mental, and physical development. To learn more about their curriculum, visit their website or call  (412) 372-4144 to schedule a tour of their facility today.