Potty Training gone wrong. Advise!

This sounds like classic stool withholding behavior triggered by potty-training stress/anxiety, which is very common around age 2–3 years. The child likely had a negative association (fear of potty/toilet, pain, pressure), and is now intentionally withholding stools, which can quickly worsen into constipation and make the fear cycle stronger.

Stop active potty training temporarily (2–6 weeks): Remove pressure completely. Allow stooling in diaper if needed—this is not a setback, it is treatment. Prevent constipation aggressively: If stools are hard/infrequent, start a stool softener (commonly PEG 3350/macrogol) as per pediatrician guidance. Goal = soft daily stool. Painful stools reinforce fear. Return to “no-pressure” routine: Sit on potty/toilet 5 minutes after meals (gastrocolic reflex) Feet supported on stool/footrest No forcing, no prolonged sitting Positive reinforcement only: Sticker chart, praise for trying/sitting, not only for pooping. Normalize and validate: Tell parents: “He is not being stubborn—he is anxious/scared.” Diet & hydration: Increase water, fruits (pear/prune/papaya), vegetables, fiber. Red flags needing evaluation: 3–4 days no stool Abdominal pain/distension, vomiting Blood in stool/fissure Weight loss or poor growth Reassurance: Most children improve well with patience + stool softening + removing pressure. Avoid punishment or repeated reminders.