Why Won't They Poop? Understanding Constipation, Withholding & Potty Anxiety

Constipation is one of the most common challenges families face - and one of the least talked about.

What often starts as occasional constipation can quickly turn into a cycle of stool withholding, painful bowel movements, potty anxiety, and daily battles that leave both kids and parents feeling frustrated, worried, and unsure what to do next.

Join us for Why Won't They Poop? Understanding Constipation, Withholding & Potty Anxiety, an honest, evidence-based conversation about why constipation happens, what keeps the cycle going, and how parents can support their child physically and emotionally through it.

Moderated by Sally Aldag, this conversation brings together a multidisciplinary team of experts: Stuart Smith, Founder & CEO of NurtureBio; Yael Beckerman, PT, DPT, Co-Founder of Skippies; and Dr. Quiara Smith, OTD, pediatric pelvic health occupational therapist and founder of Aloha Integrative Therapy.

Together, we'll discuss:

• Why constipation and stool withholding are so common in young children
• The connection between gut health, pelvic floor function, and bowel habits
• How withholding becomes a cycle—and how to gently break it
• Potty anxiety, fear, and the emotional side of constipation
• Practical strategies parents can use at home
• When it's time to seek additional support

Whether you're navigating potty training, supporting a child who's withholding, or simply wondering why your child refuses to poop, you'll leave with practical tools, expert guidance, and the reassurance that you're not alone—and that things really can get better.

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