How to spot the signs when your toddler’s tummy is holding up potty progress
You know that look. Your toddler is pacing the room, squirming a bit, looking like they’re either about to do a poo or throw a full-blown tantrum because someone gave them the wrong colour cup. With toddlers, it can be hard to tell what’s going on. But sometimes, the issue is not emotional. Sometimes, it is all happening in the tummy.
Constipation is one of those sneaky things that often goes unnoticed until it becomes a bigger issue. It is more common than many parents realise, especially during potty training. And if it is not picked up early, it can lead to discomfort, resistance to the potty, and plenty of frustration for everyone involved.
So how do you tell the difference between a toddler just having a moment and one who might be genuinely backed up?
Signs your child might be constipated:
Every child is different, but there are a few signs that tend to pop up when something is not quite right in the digestive department:
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They go several days without doing a poo
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When they do go, it is either very large or looks like little dry pebbles
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They strain, cry, or look uncomfortable when trying to go
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You spot small traces of blood in the nappy or toilet
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You see loose or watery poo that seems like diarrhoea, but actually might be a sign of overflow
Some toddlers will also avoid sitting down, clench their body in funny ways, or suddenly go quiet and hide when they feel the urge coming on. These behaviours are often missed as signs of constipation, but they can be part of the picture too.
During potty training, these signs can be even harder to spot. Your child might appear resistant to using the toilet, when in reality, they are just avoiding what they know will be an uncomfortable experience.
What causes constipation in toddlers?
There are a few reasons it might happen. Some children are not big fans of water, and if they are not drinking enough throughout the day, their digestion can slow down. Others are a little choosy with food and do not get enough fibre to keep things moving smoothly.
Sudden changes in routine, new environments, or travel can also throw things off. Even something as simple as a skipped nap or a different breakfast can disrupt what was once a regular pattern. This is especially common during potty training, when routines shift and the focus on toileting becomes more noticeable for your child.
For some toddlers, just the idea of sitting on the potty or using it in a new setting can lead to holding it in. That holding can quickly cause a build-up, and the longer they hold, the harder it becomes to go. Even if they were previously regular, the emotional pressure that sometimes comes with potty training can throw things off.
There are also other factors to consider. Emotional stress, tiredness, or being too distracted by playtime can lead children to ignore the signs their body is giving them. And in some cases, food sensitivities or allergies like cows milk protein allergy can affect digestion and cause regular tummy trouble.
So what can you do?
If you suspect your child might be constipated, there are a few gentle things you can try to help get things back on track. Start by keeping an eye on how often they are going, and what their poo looks like. It may not be glamorous, but it is helpful information.
Make water more exciting with a fun bottle or colourful straw. Sometimes the right cup is all it takes to turn sipping into a game. Offer foods that support healthy digestion, like soft fruits such as pears or apples, or fibre-rich meals like porridge or whole grain toast. Little tweaks like these can go a long way.
And most importantly, keep things calm. Try not to make too big a deal about it if they are not going regularly. A relaxed approach helps your child feel more in control and less worried about their tummy.
Constipation is more common than you might think, and it often hides behind other toddler behaviours. From strange poo patterns to sudden food refusal, your child’s tummy might be trying to tell you something. The good news is that with a bit of care, a splash of water, and some gentle food swaps, most little systems can get moving again.
And if you are ever unsure, it is always okay to ask for advice. When it comes to tiny tummies, no question is too small.