Many toddlers successfully learn to urinate in the potty but refuse to poop in it, insisting on using diapers or Pull-Ups instead. To understand why this happens, we consulted experts and gathered actionable tips to help your child overcome this common potty-training hurdle.
1. Your Child May Not Be Ready Yet
If your child refuses to poop in the potty, they may not be fully ready for potty training. Dr. Ari Brown, co-author of Toddler 411, suggests looking for these signs of readiness before expecting a smooth transition:
✅ Interest in the potty
✅ Staying dry for at least two hours during the day
✅ Hiding while having a bowel movement
✅ Communicating when their diaper is wet or soiled
If your child isn’t showing these signs, they might need more time. Dr. Kristin Hannibal, clinical director at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, emphasizes, “There is no benefit to training if your child isn’t ready or willing.” If that’s the case, consider switching back to diapers and trying again in a month or two.
2. Constipation Could Be the Issue
A single painful experience with constipation can make a child fearful of pooping. In response, they may start holding it in, which only makes the stool harder and more painful to pass—creating a frustrating cycle.
If you suspect constipation is causing your child’s potty struggles, talk to their pediatrician. Doctors often recommend mild laxatives for a short period, along with dietary adjustments such as:
🥦 Increasing fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
💧 Encouraging more water consumption
🚽 Ensuring regular and comfortable bowel movements before starting potty training
3. Your Toddler Might Be Afraid of the Toilet
According to Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin, a pediatrician at Texas Children’s Hospital, “Pooping in the toilet can be scary for many kids. Some fear losing a part of their body, others dislike the splash, and some are afraid of being sucked into the toilet or startled by the flushing sound.”
To ease these fears, Dr. Brown suggests a gradual approach:
📌 Step 1: Allow your child to poop in a diaper, but only while in the bathroom.
📌 Step 2: After a week, have them sit on the potty while wearing the diaper.
📌 Step 3: Cut a small hole in the diaper before putting it on. This allows the poop to drop into the toilet while maintaining the comfort of the diaper. (It may sound unusual, but it works!)
📌 Step 4: After a week, transition to using underwear.
If your child is anxious about flushing, encourage them to flush small pieces of toilet paper to get used to the sight and sound. Alternatively, let them leave the room before flushing.
4. Your Child Wants to Be in Control
Some toddlers resist potty training not because they can’t do it, but because they want to be in charge. Dr. Allison Chase, a child psychologist, explains, “Avoid turning this into a power struggle. Sometimes, stepping back is the best approach.”
📌 Let your child take the lead in deciding when to use the potty
📌 Encourage responsibility by involving them in cleaning up accidents
📌 Implement a reward system—stickers, praise, or small incentives for successful potty use
Final Thoughts
Pooping in the potty is a big milestone, and every child moves at their own pace. Whether it’s a matter of readiness, fear, constipation, or control, patience and a positive approach can make the process smoother. Respect your child’s timeline, and they’ll get there when they’re ready!
