- my iParenting

- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.

Expert Q&A
![]() | ||
| By John Dorsey, M.D. Pediatrician | ||
My 9-year-old daughter often will come to tears before she will announce her need to use the bathroom. Is this common?
While this may be more common in a 2-year-old, it's way outside of the range for a 9-year-old to hold elimination to a point of tears. If she has been checked out physically to make sure there are no reasons for this behavior, I suggest a visit with a child psychologist. Her behavior might be the result of an association she has developed between going to the bathroom and something negative. A psychologist should be able to draw out the emotions and feelings on going to the bathroom and help you and her together beat this behavior."
Related Expert Q&A
- Can snacks be a positive part of my child's diet?
- My child won't eat anything without dipping it in ketchup. What can I do?
- My child dips everything in ketchup. Can this ruin a balanced diet?
- My son's lips get bright red and cracked. What causes this, and how can I prevent this?
- Can you tell me about the most common prescriptions given to children?
More Answers by this Expert
- What is the main cause of birth marks?
- How can I get rid of a terrible diaper rash?
- Why did my baby getting a rash when I switched him to whole milk?
- Is it normal that my 7-month-old isn't even attempting to crawl?
- My baby is 12 weeks old and has just cut two teeth -- with more on the way. He can't hold a teether, and the gels are all for babies over 4 months. What do you suggest?



