When can toilet learning become most problematic for a child?

Toilet learning can become most problematic for a child when the child is not ready. Readiness for toilet training involves physical, emotional, and developmental factors that vary from child to child. If a child is pushed into toilet training before they are mentally or physically prepared, it can lead to frustration, anxiety, and resistance, making the entire process more challenging.

When children begin toilet learning too early, they may not have the necessary control over their bladder and bowel movements, or they might not understand the social cues associated with using the toilet. This lack of readiness can not only prolong the training process but also create negative associations with toileting. Such challenges can lead to accidents, tears, and power struggles, further complicating the learning experience.

Other options, such as seeing peers use the toilet or hearing a story about it, might spark interest or anxiety to some extent but typically do not create significant challenges compared to a child's unreadiness. Additionally, being the eldest in the family may not necessarily lead to complications as different children develop at their own pace, although the oldest might feel additional pressure. Thus, readiness is the key factor that significantly impacts the success of toilet learning.