The length of time it takes for a child to be completely potty-trained varies. One thing that can be very frustrating and even a bit disheartening is when after all of the time spent with your child on toilet training, they begin showing signs of regression. As a parent, you must first come to the realization this is very common. According to experts, there are many reasons in which this occurs. If there has been a "stressful" occurance in the child's life such as a new sibling, a new school, a divorce, or any other change in their lives, regression can definitely begin. There is also natural regression that occurs any time a child masters a skill or task.

The frustration kicks in for many parents when they see their child showing signs of consistency at home but not out in public, or vice versa. This can result for being preoccupied and simply ignoring the body's message. So, how does a parent help their child overcome these obsticles? Some important tips to remember:

• Stay consistent! Consistency is the key!!
• Praise your child when they remain dry. Positive enforcement carries a lot of weight with young ones.
• Empower them. Let them know that you believe in them and show them that you know they can accompish this.
• Give regular reminders. Children tend to get caught up in whatever it is that they are doing and simply forget. A child tends to hold it in as long as possible with fear that they will miss out on something if they leave to go the bathroom. Instead of asking if they need to go, consider telling them. Be direct and announce that it's time to go. If you ask you are leaving yourself open for your child to say no, just to have them wet themselves moments later. This is especially essential if you know that it's been a while since their last bathroom visit.
• If you child does wet themselves, don't yell or scream at them. Positive enforcement is much better than any negative attention.
• Encourage your child to help with the cleaning process. Have them remove their wet clothes and put on a clean pair.
• Do not discipline your child. If you do, they could completely shy away from wanting to learn with fear that they will be in trouble for accidents. Believe it or not, your child does not like to upset you and wants you to remain proud of them. If you show signs of being upset or disappointed because you KNOW they can do it rather than showing signs of anger, that will make a child want to try harder.
• Once again, stay consistent! This can not be stressed enough. It is by far the most important factor. 

No matter how long of a process, do not give up. The worst thing you can do is tell yourself that this is just useless and revert back to diapers. Potty training should not be a battle. It should be less difficult on the parent than the child. If you're finding that it's more difficult on you than your child then it's time to start  fresh by utulizing all of the tips above. Be direct and assertive. Just because you are being direct does not mean that you are being harsh. Directives can be said in loving ways. A good example is "Sweetie, you are doing such a great job with your puzzle. It's time to take a potty break and then you can show me how how to finish this puzzle."

Although the act of toilet training is that of the child, the process is a parent/child team effort. By instilling consistency and changing your approach on accidents, together you and your child will achieve this milestone!