Why a child withholds poop and what to do about it

Parent Educator Allison LaTona, MFT, shares advice for parents on what causes children to withhold poop and the best methods for stopping your child from doing it
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Why a child withholds poop and what to do about it

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Withholding poop is a common problem in early childhood. Parents need to first evaluate the underlying reason is for withholding. Children withhold for many reasons. Sometimes it's related to independence, control, anxiety, fear, too much pressure over a potty learning technique or pain related to constipation. Parents need to consult with their pediatrician to help them through it. Additionally, if the parents focus on the position of autonomy, that is primarily lead by the child. This reduces the pressure around the child, as well as, giving the child the message that their job is to listen to their body and put the pee and poo in their body. When parents give this message, it gives the child the power to be in charge and to master this process.

Parent Educator Allison LaTona, MFT, shares advice for parents on what causes children to withhold poop and the best methods for stopping your child from doing it

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Allison LaTona, MFT

Parent Educator, Marriage & Family Therapist

Allison LaTona, MFT, is a marriage and family therapist, whose life-changing consultation groups provide a practical and compassionate roadmap for those navigating the journey of parenthood. LaTona has 18 years of experience counseling children, families, couples and individuals, and has facilitated groups in private practice, as well as at Santa Monica's Babygroup with Donna Holloran, MSW, for over a decade. La Tona is an author for Twigtale, an online resource for creating transition books for young children.  

Focusing on respectful parenting philosophies, the power of language, emotional intelligence, and a child's natural developmental capabilities, LaTona offers specific strategies and invaluable insights that ease the inherent challenges of contemporary parenthood. Her work empowers parents with the vision and tools to create thriving and fulfilling family lives, and fosters long-term connections within a supportive community. With 13 years "in the trenches" raising two young children of her own, LaTona's personal path complements her professional credentials. Her empathy, experience, and dedication fuel her passionate commitment to her work.

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