Some of you may be aware I have a 5.3 year old who with-holds poo and sometimes wees also.
It is a terrible thing, very ongoing and nothing I can do, say or offer will change it. The only thing that keeps me sane is I feel secure in the knowledge she won't do this when shes 21!!
In the big picture this really is just a small part of our lives!
I am very aware there are many parents who are also having toileting issues, not all with-holding, but some which may end up doing this.
My advice to each and all is to totally keep it cool, the more concern, upset, grumpy etc you get the more the child will pick up on your feelings and go the opposite.
Just a little hint for those of you whos children may sit, but not produce, is to give them a balloon to inflate themselves whilst on the potty or toilet.
This actually uses the muscles that are needed to be used for passing a poo.
Hope this will help someone out.I was told this by a incontinence nurse, it can be very beneficial.
Good luck all, and remember to keep cool calm and collected, when things seem bad, try to remember what was happening a fortnight or so ago with your child and you often find things really are better!!
It is all only for a small time.
RELAX