Should I Put My Daughter Back in Diapers?
Diapers offer parents and kids security and comfort as the baby grows older and learns to use the toilet. The transition from wearing diapers to using the toilet is a major milestone. Once a kid can use the toilet independently, the burden of buying and changing diapers is lifted off the parent’s shoulders, and no parent wishes to back to phase.
However, some occurrences put kids back in diapers. If you are potty training and wondering what could take your kid back in diapers, read on. So, why are kids put back in diapers full time?
Older kids and even adults are put back in diapers full time if they are suffering from incontinence, after a big life transition, anxiety, or if the child is not ready to stop wearing diapers.
Whatever the reason why your kids get back to wearing diapers, encourage them through it and never shame them. Wearing diapers as an older kid attracts criticism from other kids, and it is your role as a parent to encourage your child through it.
It is frustrating and financially draining having to go back to purchasing diapers, but take a positive approach towards the matter, and before you know it, you will be out of it again.
Why kids and adults are put back in diapers full time
The child is not ready to leave diapers
Some kids get completely toilet trained, but after a few months, they start showing signs of wanting to put in diapers all over again. Such a child will start wetting themselves no matter how much you try to encourage them.
Such behavior should be scrutinized because there could be an underlying emotional or medical issue. As you figure out the issue, get back to the shops and stock up diapers until your child is ready to use the toilet again.
Incontinence
Incontinence is a condition whereby individuals pass urine and stool uncontrollably. The condition is mainly associated with older people, but it also affects teenagers and youth. While it is treatable, the patient is put in diapers full time during the treatment period.
After big life transitions
Big life transitions like divorce, moving cities or introducing another child to the family make so many kids relapse from potty training. Such major and stressful life transitions revert a child’s development and hence the relapse. If you realize that your kid is stressed and already peeing on themselves, put a hold on potty training until the major transition happens.
Toilet related anxiety
Anxiety is another major enemy to potty training. Some kids are okay using the toilet at home, but having to use the toilet in public places is anxiety-inducing for them. If your child starts to need diapers after school, they might be afraid of the school toilets.
Therefore, put them back in diapers and communicate with the school as they get used to the new environment.
What’s more, it is important to figure out the source of toilet anxiety for your kid. Some are afraid of the auto flash or large toilet spaces. With this knowledge, work closely with your child to make them comfortable, and soon you will be out of diapers again.
Read also How to cope with being in diapers at school
How to help your child get out of diapers
Unless your child is suffering from a medical condition that requires them to be in diapers, you should not keep them in diapers past four years. As a parent, you have to empower your child to be independent.
Keeping them in diapers is convenient for both of you but detrimental for the child. Therefore, as the child grows older, teach them independence by stopping diaper use. Here are simple steps to help your child get out of diapers:
Consistency
Consistency is key when teaching your child how to use the bathroom. Ensure that you take frequent trips to the toilet and keep your child close—award-successful visits with clapping and gifts. If you leave your child with a caregiver, explain the routine to them. In case of accidents, do not scold the kid but encourage them to do better next time.
Be patient
Patience is key during toilet training. Be ready to deal with multiple accidents while creating a conducive environment for learning. Be supportive and even come up with songs or a dance to be used when it is time to go to the toilet. If your child is afraid of the auto flash, lead by example by entering the toilet and reacting normally to the flash.
Switch to low absorbent diapers
Diapers with high absorbency are very comfortable, and your child never feels uncomfortable even after they are wet. To take away this comfort, start using low absorbed diapers which are uncomfortable for the child and they will soon want to be out of them.
Read also How to cope with being in diapers for bedwetting
How to react to a teenager who wants to be out in diapers full time
Dealing with a teenager who wants to start wearing diapers full time can be confusing. However, as a parent, hold your emotions down and listen to why your child considers wearing diapers. Here is a guide on how to deal with the news:
Have a discussion
Although it is a very difficult conversation, it is important to sit down with your teenager and let them explain why they want to start wearing diapers. Listen with empathy because the situation is difficult for them as well. Creating a safe space opens the doors for honesty and more disclosure.
Explore the possible causes
Understanding why your teenager wants to start wearing diapers puts you in a better place to help them. Some of the reasons teenagers wear diapers include anxiety and depression, bedwetting, incontinence, or sexual fetish.
As you go through the possible causes, give your child time to speak, and do not rush them into admitting anything because they might just shut down disclosure.
Ask them to send you links or other reading materials to help you understand what they are going through.
Seek medical help
Unless they are suffering from incontinence or bedwetting, most teenagers get the urge to wear diapers because they are emotionally distressed. Therefore, book an appointment with a mental health specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Throughout this process, allow your child to express themselves without judgment. They need support because what they are going through is already shameful and embarrassing.
FAQ on Put back in diapers full time
Do children ever go back into diapers after potty training?
Yes, some children regress and go back to diapers. That stage calls for consistency and a lot of encouragement to get your kid back to using the toilet. Dealing with the mess after regression is not easy, and some parents put their kids back in diapers. While this is an option, it is better to give your child opportunities to use the toilet and get back on track. Putting them in diapers full time takes them back to square.
How do you get your parents to put you back in diapers?
Asking your parents to put you back in diapers is embarrassing. However, since you cannot fund diapers, gather courage and approach your parents with your concerns. Most parents will listen to you and even take you to the doctor for assessment.
Should I put my daughter back in diapers?
It is not advisable to put a child back in diapers unless they suffer from a condition that warrants wearing diapers. Toilet training is a challenging journey, but parents should not back up and let the kids have their way. With consistency and encouragement, help your kids stay out of diapers when it is time.
