My 6 yearold with restroom issues...

I have a 6 year old daughter, who doesn't like going to the rest room. She has been potty trained sence age two. I understand that all children no matter the age have accidents. First it started out with an accident every once in a while. Then it happened more offten. I changed her diet. The accidents keep happening. I took her to the doctor, they found nothing wrong. Now the accidents happen everyday. Also She is doing more then peeing on herself. I don't feel it's right to punish her for them. I'm so confused, I don't know what to do.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

When you comment that your daughter does not like going to the rest room, are you inferring that from her behavior or has she actually conveyed that to you directly?

[JamieKay2009]

She hasn't said that she doesn't like going, I gather that from her behavior. I ask her if maybe she might be frightened to use  the rest room, because I've heard that some children are at times. She said no, but she still will not use the rest room like she needs to. She will hold it, until she can not hold it any longer. Then she has an accident.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

You are right not to punish her. I would definitely continue to explore this situation medically, including lab work to rule out any infection. When children refuse to use the toilet, it often has to do with their having experienced painful bowel movements when they are constipated. They then avoid the toilet because it is associated with pain.

[josie302]

A related discussion, constant pooping at age 7 years old was started.