Why is my 4 year old wetting and soiling his pants?

[reen1977]

What is the best way to handle a 4 year old boy already potty trained who now has accidents at least 2 times a day?  I feel horrible when I scream at him , and I praise him when he doesn't wet or poop his pants.  This has been happening for about a month now.  I feel frustated and that somehow I am failing as a parent.  I know he is just a child.  I know he doesn't want me to yell at him or be upset with this.  He is a good boy, sweet, caring, sensitive, and strong.  Thank you for listening.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Be sure to have him examined by his pediatrician to rule out impacted bowel syndrome. This is by far the most frequent explanation for the symptoms you are describing. Also, refrain from yelling at him. That is not at all helpful. It is crucial for you to maintain emotional control. Your note implies that you regard it as OK to scream at your child. But it's not OK. Maintain your equanimity and confer with the pediatrician. If your son is OK medically, consider the role that any trauma or change might be playing. These are also factors in children regressing in relation to toilet training.

[mangoe]

A related discussion, My son is 4 1/2 and is wetting and pooping his pants was started.

[pixijal]

I am having the same problem.  My son turned 5 last week, but since Easter, he has been going number 1 and 2 in his pants.  He has done it everywhere...school, the bookstore, grandma's house...etc.  I'm freaking out....his is starting Kindergarten in three months....what then?  Sorry that I don't have an answer for you, but your not alone.