Step into the world of a child’s imagination where the toilet becomes quite scary and intimidating to children. It’s big, hard, and cold. It makes loud noises, and things disappear into it, never to be seen again. Quite mysterious! So it’s common for children to have potty training fears and anxieties related to using the toilet.
Here are 3 common toilet fears that children experience:
1. Flushing Poo
The idea of flushing the toilet after they poo makes some children quite distressed. Especially if they’re worried about their poo being sucked down the drain. This fear may stem from a fear of the unknown and a lack of understanding about how the toilet works. Where did the poo go?! How did it disappear? Keep in mind that children can have quite vivid imaginations.
Some children may also experience separation anxiety. Yes, you’re reading it right! Children may develop an attachment to their waste, considering it a part or elongation of themselves. Flushing the poo may trigger the fear of losing something important to them.
Tip: Start by encouraging the child to stay in the bathroom while you flush the toilet. Allow them to observe the process without feeling pressured to flush their own waste. This step helps them gradually become more comfortable with the sound and action of flushing. Allow them to decide when they feel ready to flush. You can start by letting them flush with your assistance and then gradually transition to them doing it independently.
2. Falling into The Big Hole
Many children are afraid of slipping and falling into the toilet bowl. Especially if they are small or unsteady on their feet. They may worry about the toilet sucking them in, just like their poo!
If the child has had a negative experience in the bathroom before, it may intensify this fear. These negative experiences include slipping or tripping, or feeling unstable while using the toilet. In such cases, the child refuses to sit on the potty.
Some children may also find the sensation of sitting on the toilet seat or the coolness of the porcelain uncomfortable. This discomfort can contribute to their anxiety about using the toilet.
Tip: Your child can have a more secure and stable sitting position if you provide them with a toilet seat. It helps alleviate their fear of slipping or feeling unstable. The toilet seat provides a larger surface area and often has non-slip features. Additionally, a stepping stool can be placed in front of the toilet to help children easily access the seat. This not only assists them in getting onto the toilet but also adds an extra layer of safety. The stepping stool enables children to have better control over their movements. This reduces the chances of falling into the toilet.
Encourage them to sit on the toilet seat while you provide physical support until they feel comfortable on their own. Say something like: “I am here to keep you safe. I’ll hold your hand and stand right beside you to make sure you feel secure.” Assure them by saying “Mommy/daddy uses the toilet too and it’s nothing to be afraid of. I’m proud of you for trying.”
3. Loud flushing sounds
Some children are more sensitive to loud or sudden noises. The loud or unexpected sound of a toilet flushing may discomfort them. This can lead to resistance, fear, or anxiety.
Tip: Embark on an imaginary rocket ship adventure together! Before flushing, gather your child and count down: “3…2…1…Blast off!” Encourage them to use their imagination and envision all their fears zooming away into space, leaving them feeling brave and confident.
To empower your child further, give them a sense of control during the flushing adventure. If they feel a little anxious, suggest that they cover their ears. You can also make them wear special noise-blocking headphones to make them feel more secure. Additionally, encourage them to create their own sound effects, such as “whoosh” or “zoom,” while flushing to make it a fun and less surprising experience.
Additional Tips for Battling the Fear of Toilet in Children
To address the potty training fears, you will need to take a gentle and patient approach. In case you’re wondering what to do if your child is scared of potty, here are some additional strategies to help your child overcome their anxieties:
1. Transitioning from potty to toilet
Start with a potty chair before transitioning your child to using the toilet. The potty provides a smaller and more child-friendly environment for your child to learn. The suitable height of a potty makes it easier for them to sit down and get up independently. Wait for your child to be potty trained and comfortable using the potty chair. The transition to using the toilet can occur naturally over time.
2. Normalize their potty training fears
Let your child know that their fear is normal and that many children go through the same experience. This can help your child feel less alone and less embarrassed about their fears.
3. Become an expert in toilet machinery
Take the time to explain to your child how the toilet works. Explain to them that flushing the toilet won’t make them or their waste disappear. Here is a funny and informative clip you can use.
4. Provide support and reassurance
Ensure that your child feels steady while sitting on the toilet using a toilet seat and step stool. Reassure your child that they won’t fall into the toilet bowl and that you’ll be there to help them if they need it.
5. Prepare them in advance
Let them know when you’re going to flush and give them time to cover their ears or put on some music. Using automated public toilets? Keep sticky notes in your purse, and simply use them to cover the sensor. Don’t leave them behind though 🙂
6. Create a comfortable environment
Make sure that your child feels comfortable and safe in the bathroom. This may involve providing a night light or their favorite blanket, or playing soothing music.
7. Use positive reinforcement
Praise your child when they successfully use the toilet or make progress in their potty training. This can help them feel more confident and motivated to keep trying. A high-five always assures (make sure to wash hands together first 😉)
Remember that potty training is a gradual process. It’s important to be patient, supportive, and understanding. Reassure them that their fears are normal. Help them overcome their anxieties by explaining how the toilet works. Provide a safe environment where they can explore and experiment.
It’s important to remember that every child is different. There is no one “right” way to potty train. Some children may be ready to transition directly to the toilet, while others may benefit from using a potty first. The key is to be patient, supportive, and responsive to your child’s needs and preferences.
If your child’s fears persist or are causing significant distress, consider consulting a pediatrician or a child psychologist. Our potty training consultants at Go Potty are also happy to help you.
