If you're having problems with potty training, the first person to turn to for help is your child's pediatrician. Doctors with this specialty work with potty training problems day in and day out, and are extremely knowledgeable about the subject. In addition to their technical knowledge, pediatricians have dealt with hundreds or even thousands of youngsters, which gives them a substantial basis for comparison. Although it may be true that no one knows your child as well as you do, professionals are in a better position to be objective about your child's capabilities.

When talking to your child's doctor, be honest and forthcoming when sharing your potty training problems, as well as the steps you have taken to correct them — even if it means admitting things that you have said and done that you think were wrong. To hold back is to do your child and yourself a disservice. The truth is that no parent feels very confident about how they have handled all of the difficult problems that can arise during potty training, and if they do, they probably shouldn't!

If you don't feel comfortable confiding in your child's pediatrician, schedule some interviews and find a different doctor. Since there's nothing like hearing other parents' struggles to give you a new perspective on your own, consider joining a parenting group, too.