Potty Training Policy

…learning through play

Potty Training Policy

I aim to work in partnership with parents and carers when you wish to start potty training your child. Each child is different, and can not be hurried into potty training before they are ready.

Many children will show strong signs that they are ready for potty training before the age of 3 years old. The bladder capacity increases significantly between the ages of 2 and 3 years, so that by the time they are 3 most children are able to hold on and stay dry for longer periods of time. Though some may be slightly earlier and some take longer, each child is individual.

When you believe your child is ready to be potty trained, you are required to start the process at home over a holiday period or at least a weekend. We can always start off by putting your child on the potty at regular times of the day and at nappy changing time then progress from there. I would require your child to wear either pull ups or at least trainer pants until they can actually ask to use the toilet before they require it and can control their bladder / bowels a few moments beyond that announcement. Normal pants can only be used here on their own once your child has demonstrated full bladder and bowel control and asking for the toilet, we will discuss at the time when necessary. If using trainer pants please supply some nappies / pull ups for outings and sleep times until child is fully trained.

Whilst potty training children really need to wear suitable clothing, e.g. easy to pull up and down, no dungarees or baby grows with poppers underneath.

During potty training in normal pants, it would be good practice to supply at least 2 or 3 extra full changes of clothing, to include socks (if wearing them). Soiled clothes will be returned in a plastic bag at the end of the day.

Signs your child may be ready for potty training include:

‘I can do it’ becomes a regular refrain – showing that your toddler wants to become more independent.
They have regular, formed bowel movements – may go red in the face and gain a very concentrated expression when about to go.
Has the dexterity to pull their own pants up and down.
Is interested when you go to the toilet yourself.
Is dry for longer periods of time, up to three or four hours. This shows that their bladder capacity and control are improving.
Can understand simple instructions.
Has started to recognise the sensations that they need to go to the toilet and demonstrates this either verbally or by holding themselves or grunting.
May complain about a dirty nappy.
Has started to rip off nappy when it has wee in it.Any accidents will be dealt with calmly and not to blame or discipline the child into thinking they have done something wrong. Praise will be used when a potty / toilet has been used.It is not advisable to start potty training when there are any major changes in the child’s life going on at the same time.If after a couple of weeks it is obvious the child is not ready, then it may be advisable to stop the process and re-try in a couple of months time.Please note the above are guidelines, we will discuss the individual requirements for your child when the time arrives.I will require you to sign to say you have read and understood this Policy.If you have any concerns regarding this policy please discuss them with me.