Two steps forward, one step back ... the parenting mantra.

It is often discouraging for parents if their child begins to successfully use the toilet and then abruptly stops, refusing to do it anymore, or starts having accidents.

This is a very normal occurrence. It means that your child began toileting independently before she was truly ready and is simply taking a break.

It is very difficult for a young child to keep his or her mind on two things at once. Because a newly potty trained child will have to concentrate very hard on remembering to use the toilet in order to be successful, this can interfere with play and can be an exhausting task. Going back to diapers and waiting until he or she is more cognitively prepared, though disappointing for you, may be a positive move.

If your child is willing and able it is possible that he or she will need consistent support to remember to use the potty.Weekends or evenings may be a good time to devote to potty learning.