
Dear Annie: Grandparent’s use of ‘gentle threats’ won’t likely help 5-year-old get potty trained
Key Points:
- A grandmother seeks advice about her 5-year-old grandson, Billie, who may have encopresis, causing involuntary stool leakage and difficulty with potty training despite various methods tried.
- Billie wears a Pull-Up due to liquid stool leakage, rarely uses the toilet for bowel movements or urination, and faces teasing from other children, which causes him shame and self-blame.
- Annie advises consulting a pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and treatment, and suggests family therapy if psychological factors contribute to Billie's distress.
- Another reader questions the etiquette of being invited to a wedding shower but not the wedding, feeling hurt and unsure about the friendship.
- Annie recommends open communication to clarify the situation, noting that there may be legitimate












