A multiparous client is concerned that her 3-year-old son is ignoring his toilet training skills since the new baby arrived. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

A multiparous client is concerned that her 3-year-old son is ignoring his toilet training skills since the new baby arrived. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

• A. Regressive behaviors like this are a typical reaction; he needs extra love and attention right now.
• B. This is purely a behavioral disorder; you should seek help.
• C. Toilet training is unaffected by new sibling.
• D. Ignore his behavior and praise the baby instead.

Answer: (A)

When a new sibling arrives, a preschooler often feels left out or anxious, and it’s common for a child to temporarily regress in skills like toilet training. The most appropriate nurse response is to acknowledge this as a normal reaction and to support the child with extra love and attention. This helps the child feel secure and reinforces positive toilet-training efforts without punishment. Practical steps include maintaining consistent routines, setting aside special one-on-one time with the toddler, involving him in simple baby care tasks, and praising successes rather than focusing on accidents.

Labeling this as a behavioral disorder isn’t accurate, and ignoring the child or exclusively praising the baby sends the message that the toddler’s feelings don’t matter, which can worsen jealousy and regression. Similarly, asserting that toilet training is unaffected ignores the family dynamics at play and can mislead the parent about why the regression is occurring.