Supporting children with toilet training is an important part of their development. The Early Years Coalition (EYC) highlights that early years practitioners should plan and reflect on children’s physical care, including toileting, alongside their education. Practitioners need to ensure children have enough time and support for self-care, making it a positive experience for both the child and the adult.
When should toilet training begin?
Toilet training is part of health and self-care, a key aspect of physical development. Practitioners should work closely with families and start discussing toileting expectations when children are around 18 – 24 months old. According to the Department for Education (DfE), most children begin toilet training before age three. At first, they need help, but they gradually become independent. Between the ages of two and three, children start to recognise when they need the toilet and can communicate this better.
Preparing for toilet training
Both parents/carers and practitioners can help children get ready for toilet training by:
- Encouraging and praising their efforts
- Teaching them to wash their hands, pull up their trousers, and put on/take off socks and shoes
- Creating a routine, such as letting them sit on the potty or toilet before bath time, bedtime, waking up, nappy changes, and before meals
- Ensuring they have a balanced diet with plenty of fibre and fluids to prevent constipation
Signs a child is ready for toilet training
Children may be ready to start if they:
- Notice when their nappy is wet or dirty
- Recognise when they are weeing and may say something about it
- Have an hour or more between wet nappies
- Show signs they need the toilet, such as squirming, wriggling, or hiding
- Tell an adult they need to go
However, not all children show these signs, especially those with additional needs. Toilet training is a process, not a one-time event, and it is best started when a child’s routine is stable and there are no major life changes.
Making toilet training easier
- Use stories and toys: Dolls, teddies, and books about toileting help children understand what to do
- Use positive language: Avoid negative descriptions like “smelly” or “messy” to keep the experience stress-free
- Choose the right clothing: Loose, easy-to-remove clothing makes toilet training smoother. Avoid buttons, zips, leggings, or tights
- Pick the right time of year: Warmer months can be easier as children wear fewer clothes, and they dry faster if there are accidents
- Try training pants: Washable or disposable pull-ups help children feel when they are wet, making the transition to underwear easier
- Provide the right equipment: A potty that can be moved around or a toilet seat with a step can help children feel safe and supported. Sitting with feet flat and knees higher than hips makes it easier to go
- Encourage boys to sit down first: This helps them relax and fully empty their bladder
Creating a routine
Encourage children to use the toilet at regular times, such as:
- After meals (digestion often triggers the need to go)
- At times when they usually go
- When they show signs of needing the toilet
To keep them sitting long enough, read a short book, sing a song, or let them bring a toy, but avoid keeping them there too long – two minutes is enough. If a child gets upset, pause training for a couple of weeks, but try to stay consistent to avoid confusion.
Handling toilet training accidents
- Stay calm and reassure the child
- Simply clean up and remind them to use the toilet next time
- Avoid making a fuss – this helps to prevent anxiety
- Praise them for trying, not just for success
- Sticker charts or small rewards can encourage progress
Promoting independence
By ages three to four, children become more independent with toileting.
Practitioners should:
- Teach them to wash their hands properly, especially before meals and after using the toilet
- Work with parents/carers if a child struggles with toilet training
- Encourage parents to seek help from a GP or health visitor if needed
Toilet training in reception
The DfE states that by the end of reception, children should be able to manage their hygiene and personal needs, including using the toilet. While most reception-aged children are independent, practitioners should:
- Give reminders to use the toilet and wash hands
- Support children who still need help by working with parents, health visitors, or school nurses
Toilet training is an essential life skill that requires patience, encouragement, and consistency. With the right approach, practitioners can help children gain confidence and independence in their self-care.
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