Listed below are some of the more common items one may want to consider when attempting to improve their child’s potty habits.
Voiding and bowel diaries are useful when the parents are trying to monitor how often a child is peeing and pooping. Many times, the parents are not completely aware of what their child is doing while at school and away from home. By keeping a diary, one can see if a child tends to have more problems during specific times of the day, or at particular places or during several days.
Reward systems are helpful especially for the younger children. As stated previously, praise from everyone is important. The child needs to know that good potty behavior is rewarded with praise and satisfaction. Stickers, small items, toys and even candy are commonly used. The best rewards are those that require a “build up” and are not achieved with each successful event.
Bathroom timers can give children visual or audible feedback about how long they should stay in the restroom. Timers that have the children stay on the potty for about 3 minutes can be very valuable, since they will learn to take their time without the parents standing over them.
Alarm and Vibrating Watches are excellent tools to remind children during the day to go to the bathroom often. Depending on a child’s schedule, they should be set to alarm or vibrate at least every 1½-2 hours. The watch should have a special feature that causes the watch to automatically alarm without resetting. Older children may be embarrassed by an alarm and desire a watch that vibrates.
Urine collection devices can be obtained from a medical supply company or a physician. These open containers fit into the commode and collect the urine. A child and parent can then measure and see how much urine is produced with each trip to the potty.
Dr. Smith is board certified and he has authored or co-authored many articles, papers, chapters, and books in Urology and Pediatric Urology. His research has been presented throughout the world. Dr. Smith’s dedication to helping children with urologic problems inspired him to establish PottyMD.