So, your sweet little toddler has taken to the rather unrefined practice of smearing feces like a young artist with a messy palette? You’re probably wishing you could disappear into your shirt, praying that no one realizes it’s your child turning their bedroom into a canvas for their “art.” Believe me, I understand.
I’ve experienced that shocking moment of entering my toddler’s room, only to be met with a scene reminiscent of a chocolate factory explosion. If you’re like me, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed, cleaning up what feels like a daily disaster, and questioning your parenting abilities while you scrub yet another stain off a once-pristine nursery wall.
Despite this shared experience, it’s not a subject many parents feel comfortable discussing. How do you casually ask another parent, “So, is your child also transforming their bedroom into a fecal masterpiece?” It’s an awkward and personal topic, leading us to wonder, is this behavior typical?
The answer is, YES! This behavior, while unpleasant, is a common phase in toddler development. In the realm of medical literature, parents dealing with fecal smearing (or scatolia) are not alone. Though it may not be a widely talked-about issue, it’s more common in children than you might think, and there are ways to address it.
Why Do They Do It?
Scatolia can arise from various reasons, often making it challenging to pinpoint a single cause. Understanding the “why” can help you find effective strategies to prevent your little one from engaging in this behavior. Factors ranging from medical, behavioral, to psychiatric issues—like autism, sensory processing disorder, PICA, gastrointestinal issues, constipation, OCD, and anxiety—can contribute. A history of trauma or abuse may also play a role.
If those possibilities have been ruled out, observe when your child tends to smear feces. Is it during naptime or bedtime? Toddlers often engage in such behavior when they’re bored or lacking stimulation. Identifying the specific times and patterns can help you understand your child’s needs.
When my son began this phase, it mostly occurred during quiet times when he was alone. Recognizing this pattern allowed me to realize he required more engagement throughout the day. For him, smearing became a way to fill the void of boredom.
How Do I Stop It?
For toddlers with autism or sensory processing challenges, or those simply needing extra stimulation, increasing sensory playtime can be beneficial. Activities like playing with warm slime, dough, or even sensory-friendly toys in their space can redirect their energy and creativity.
Consider using fitted clothing, such as onesies, to keep the mess contained until you can change them. Despite the frustration of fecal smearing, it’s essential not to punish your child for this behavior. Some kids seek attention, even if it’s negative. After all, negative attention is still attention.
When this happens, aim to respond with a neutral yet firm demeanor. You can convey that smearing feces is not acceptable without resorting to yelling. Providing minimal attention while you clean up is the most effective approach.
Cleaning your toddler should not be a traumatic experience. However, it’s crucial not to inadvertently reward this behavior. If your child associates making a mess with a fun bath time, they may repeat the behavior. Instead, a simple bath without toys will suffice without creating a negative association.
Positive reinforcement can also be incredibly effective. Celebrate moments when your child refrains from smearing during their usual times. Consider implementing a sticker chart or offering small treats as incentives. Praising your child for their positive actions fosters the desire to repeat them.
Above all, remember that you’re not alone in this. Your child is not “broken,” and neither are you as a parent. Toddlers are at an age where they’re exploring cause and effect, and they may not comprehend that poop is deemed gross. Instead, they’re curious about the effects of their actions, similar to how they would explore slime or play dough.
Trust your instincts. If you suspect a medical issue might be influencing this behavior, reach out to a healthcare provider. They’ve likely encountered a variety of challenges before, so there’s no need for embarrassment.
And always keep in mind, sometimes, well… things happen.
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Summary
Toddlers engaging in scatolia, or fecal smearing, is a common phase that can stem from various factors, including boredom and sensory processing issues. Addressing this behavior requires understanding the underlying causes, providing adequate stimulation, and employing positive reinforcement. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and there is no shame in seeking guidance from professionals if needed.