Toddler is trained for urinating in the toilet, but won't poo there, any advice?

My daughter (will be 3 next month) urinates in the potty on her own, but has never gone poop in the toilet. I try to encourage, but so far - nothing. She used to have erratic bowel movements, but now she regularly has them at nap time, or over night - these are the only times she's in pull-ups. I think she'd now holding them in because she doesn't want to go in her panties, but doesn't want to go in the potty either. How can I help her see it will be okay, if she won't try?

Answers:
I'm going through the exact same problem. While bribing your children works I honestly don't think it's a good idea. But two things that I've tried that seem to work. Is a little stool that is big enough for her to put her feet on (if she potty's on the toilet rather then a potty chair) children sometimes need to bear down when they poop and that makes it easier. Also try reading a story while she's on the toilet. It can distract her from any fears she may have and she'll go without realizing it.

i had this problem for the last 5 or 6 months :( ugh, it got to the point where she was constipating herself b/c she didnt want to go in the toilet OR the undies.. after trying everything i just decided to let it go pretty much completely. i just didnt say a word to her about it really. occasionally reminded her that she should try and poop in the potty but i just took all pressure off. I'm not sure if it was that or her just deciding when she felt like she wanted to do it but she is now FINALLY pooping in the potty.. sometimes i think thats all it is, they will do it, whenever they are ready kwim?

More Questions & Answers...

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.

Toddler is trained for urinating in the toilet, but won't poo there, any advice?

Pregnancy & Parenting