#2 In the Tub!

My 17 months old did this for the first time the other day. I didn't punish her or even tell her it was bad. I don't think she would understand. Also, I don't want her to associate going to the bathroom as something bad. Actually, a few days later she was a bit constipated and struggling to go #2. I put her in the tub and 5 min later, she had gone in the tub. So, I actually used it to my advantage (and hers too). She felt much better afterwards and was in a much better mood!!

I really don't know if there is any way to avoid that. the warm water just relaxes him and he probably has no control over it - or rather he is just too young to understand that that feeling means he is going to poop and better get out. I think 18 months is just way too young to expect a boy to potty train. Boys are naturally slower at it than girls and IMO I think the earliest anyone should start a boy or a girl is 2 years old. My son was 3 and a half by the time he was trained and he's five and still has to wear a pull up to bed.

Anyway I thought I should add, when I was little like 3-5 years old, I had constipation problems and I remember (of course with constant reminders from my family) that everytime I got in water, whether it be a lake or a tub, I would have to go... most of the time I got out in time.

So PLEASE don't punish him, just go with the flow, keep reminding him gently where he should be going potty and it will come soon I am sure.

Hey J., I don't have too much experience yet but my sister's son does it all the time too and the doctor said it has to do with the relaxing their body does in the warm water. Other than being unsanitary and yucky it is not that big a deal. This too shall pass!

I've heard many kids do this because of the warm water. It causes them to relax. I would not punish him since this may cause him to try and hold it which may lead to contispation.