You thought you were done with potty training… the diapers were packed away, your child was using the potty like a pro, and you were ready to celebrate. 🎉 But suddenly… accidents start happening again. Welcome to potty training regression, a super common (and very frustrating!) stage many parents face.
The good news? Regression is usually temporary, and with some patience and consistency, your child will get back on track.
Why Potty Training Regression Happens
There are a few common reasons kids who were once potty trained start having accidents again:
1. Big Life Changes
Moves, starting daycare or preschool, a new sibling, or even traveling can disrupt routines and make kids regress.
2. Stress or Emotions
Toddlers and preschoolers often don’t have the words to explain their feelings, so accidents can become an outlet for stress, anxiety, or attention-seeking.
3. Medical Reasons
Constipation, urinary tract infections, or even just withholding can cause potty setbacks.
4. Forgetting the Routine
Sometimes kids get so busy playing or distracted that they simply forget to go or we as parents back off and rely on self-initiation
Tips for Getting Back on Track 🚽
If your child is experiencing potty training regression, here’s what you can do:
✅ Stay Calm – Getting upset or punishing accidents usually makes things worse. Respond with patience and encouragement.
✅ Go Back to Basics – Reintroduce the potty routine: regular sit times, reminders, and praise for success. Sometimes a refresher is all they need. You are not a failure if you have to return to bare buns for a day.
✅ Look for Triggers – If there’s been a big change (new school, sibling, etc.), offer extra comfort and reassurance.
✅ Keep It Positive – Celebrate every success — even a small one — to rebuild confidence.
✅ Rule Out Medical Causes – If accidents are frequent and unusual, check in with your pediatrician to make sure nothing physical is going on.
The Bottom Line
Potty training regression doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it’s a normal part of the process for many kids. The key is staying consistent, calm, and supportive while gently guiding your child back to potty success.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to figure it out alone. I work 1:1 with parents to troubleshoot potty challenges like regression, withholding, and poop issues. My Potty Training Course also gives you a step-by-step plan (with a section on regressions!) so you can stop guessing and start moving forward.
