Potty training can feel like such a big win when it finally clicks, which is why potty training regression can be so upsetting. Just when you think you are past the accidents and nappies, your toddler suddenly starts having accidents again or refusing the potty altogether.
We have been there, and it can really knock your confidence as a parent. The most important thing to know is that toddler potty training setbacks are incredibly common. Regression does not mean you have failed or that your child has forgotten how to use the toilet. It usually means something else is going on.
Here are five common reasons potty training regression happens, along with what helped us handle each one calmly and confidently.
Big Changes Can Trigger Potty Training Regression
One of the biggest causes of potty training regression is change. Toddlers thrive on routine, so when something disrupts that routine, it can show up in their toileting habits.
Common changes that can cause toddler potty training setbacks include:
🚽 Starting nursery or preschool
🚽 A new sibling arriving
🚽 Moving house
🚽 Travelling or holidays
🚽 Changes in childcare or daily schedule
What helped us:
We took a step back and reduced pressure. We reminded ourselves that accidents were a sign our child needed reassurance, not correction. Keeping potty routines familiar and predictable helped our toddler feel safe again.
2.
Illness or Tiredness Can Lead to Setbacks
When toddlers are unwell or overtired, potty training often slips. Even a mild cold, disrupted sleep, or growth spurt can affect their ability to recognise when they need the toilet.
We noticed more accidents during times when naps were skipped or sleep was unsettled.
What helped us:
We focused on rest first. We offered more reminders, extra patience, and accepted that potty training might not be the priority for a few days. Once our child felt better and more rested, things slowly improved again.
Pressure and Expectations Can Backfire
Without meaning to, it is easy to put pressure on potty training. Asking too often, reacting strongly to accidents, or comparing progress to other children can all increase anxiety.
For some toddlers, that pressure leads directly to potty training regression.
What helped us:
We changed our language. Instead of asking constantly, we built potty time into the day, such as after meals and before bed. We stayed calm during accidents and avoided showing frustration, even when it was hard.
4.
Emotional Upsets Can Show Up as Potty Training Regression
Toddlers do not always have the words to explain how they are feeling. Big emotions like anxiety, excitement, frustration, or feeling overwhelmed can come out through behaviour, including toileting.
Potty training regression can sometimes be one of the only ways they know how to communicate that something feels off.
What helped us:
We spent more time connecting. Extra cuddles, quiet play, and talking about feelings made a real difference. When our toddler felt emotionally supported, their confidence with the potty slowly returned too.
5. Sometimes Regression Is Just Part of Learning
This was the hardest one for me to accept. Potty training is not a straight line. Even when everything seems right, setbacks can still happen.
Many toddlers go through several phases of progress and regression before things finally settle for good.
What helped us:
We reminded ourselves that regression does not erase progress. Every accident was still part of the learning process. Staying consistent, calm, and encouraging helped our toddler regain confidence without shame.
Our Final Thoughts
Potty training regression can feel frustrating and exhausting, but it is almost always temporary. Toddler potty training setbacks are usually a sign that your child needs a little extra support, patience, or reassurance.
If regression lasts a long time, becomes very distressing, or is combined with pain, constipation, or withholding, it is always okay to speak to your GP or health visitor for guidance.
Most importantly, trust yourself. You know your child best, and with time, consistency, and kindness, potty training confidence will return.
