health concerns
Question and Answer
I'm trying to potty train my 3-year-old son who has Down syndrome. While changing his diaper, I talk to him about going to the bathroom instead of going in his diaper. Does he have the capacity to understand at this age, considering his challenges?
Children vary in the age at which they become toilet trained. In rare instances, some are trained as early as 18 months and others as late as 5 or 6 years of age. The average age for toilet training is within a range of about 3 to 5 years or age. A child with a mental health disorder such as Down syndrome may develop more slowly and not experience toilet training success until later.
Research shows that positive reinforcement helps to speed toilet training in children. Negative comments actually delay the training process and may harm the relationship with the child and possibly his self-image.
Background Information
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What Causes Vomiting and Diarrhea in Infants?
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Questions and Answers
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Chronic Kids, Healthy Spirits
Two sisters write about parenting their children with chronic illnesses
Dear Friend
In the face of bad news, it helps to hear from someone who's already passed through the valley.
Too Young To Die
Living with a seriously ill child can seem too much to bear.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Bearing the Burden of a Child's Illness
In the midst of a devastating diagnosis, sometimes all you can do is to trust God.
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Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
