There are only a few areas in life where a toddler has a significant amout of control. Eating and toileting are among these few.
It is difficult and counterproductive to force a child to eat. Similarly, it is difficult and counterproductive to force a child to void or produce a bowel movement on command.
Parents should avoid engaging in "toileting battles." Indeed, there is a significant risk that the child will demonstrate control by "stool withholding," which may lead to chronic constipation.
As a child withholds stool, the stool becomes harder, dryer and larger. Children may then withhold the stool to avoid the discomfort of passing a larger, harder stool.
To break the toileting battle crisis, call a cease fire. Stop all reminders and pressures to toilet train for one to three months. This includes pressure from parents, grandparents, child-care providers or other caregivers.
Senokot® Laxatives contain no harsh impurities.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions about constipation.
