Support for children starting nursery school: toilet training

Learning to use the toilet is an important step in a child's development. Every child is different and will learn at their own pace, but with patience, encouragement and support, most children can learn to become clean and dry.

As children prepare to start school, developing independent toileting skills can help them feel more confident, comfortable and ready to take part fully in school life. Working together, families and early years settings can support children to achieve this important milestone before they begin school.

Toilet training is a skill that develops over time. There will be successes, setbacks and accidents along the way, and that's completely normal. Staying calm, positive and consistent can help a child feel confident as they learn.

Most children, including many children with Additional Learning Needs (ALN), can learn to use the toilet successfully. Some children, particularly those with sensory or developmental differences, may need extra time, support and repetition.

Why toilet training matters

Learning to use the toilet can:

  • support healthy bladder and bowel development
  • build confidence and independence
  • prepare children for nursery and school routines
  • save money on nappies and wipes
  • reduce waste and help protect the environment

Preparing for toilet training

Before starting toilet training, it's important to remember:

  • toilet training is a gradual process, not something that happens overnight
  • children can become familiar with a potty or toilet as soon as they can sit safely on their own
  • research suggests that introducing toilet training between 18 and 30 months can support healthy bladder and bowel habits
  • many children do not show obvious signs that they are ready or ask to stop wearing nappies
  • starting too late can sometimes make learning new toileting routines more challenging

What to consider

Make sure children are healthy and comfortable when toilet training. Try to:

  • check that your child is not constipated, as constipation can make toilet training more difficult
  • encourage a healthy diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and water
  • support regular bowel movements
  • decide whether a potty or a toilet with a child seat and step is likely to work best for your child

How to prepare

You can help prepare your child by:

  • changing wet or dirty nappies promptly
  • introducing the potty or toilet through play, stories and everyday conversations
  • letting your child sit on the potty or toilet regularly, even if they do not use it at first
  • working closely with nursery staff, childminders and family members so everyone uses the same approach

Starting toilet training

When you feel ready to begin toilet training:

  • choose a time when life is relatively calm, with few disruptions
  • explain to your child that they are moving from nappies to pants
  • encourage regular toilet visits throughout the day
  • look out for signs that your child may need the toilet, such as:
    • fidgeting
    • squatting
    • becoming quiet
    • telling you they need a wee
  • use visual timetables, photographs, symbols (external website) or Makaton (external website) (a communication programme that uses signs, symbols and speech together to help people understand and express language) if these help your child understand the process
  • praise all efforts and achievements, including sitting on the potty or toilet
  • stay consistent and try not to switch back to nappies during the day unless absolutely necessary

How to help your child

You can help by:

  • dressing your child in clothes that are easy to pull up and down
  • allowing some nappy-free time so your child can begin to recognise when they need the toilet
  • making the bathroom a comfortable and welcoming space
  • considering lighting, noise levels and seating comfort for children with sensory sensitivities
  • staying calm if accidents happen, accidents are a normal part of learning and should never be a cause for punishment or embarrassment

Nap time and night-time

Night-time dryness often develops after children are confident using the toilet during the day.

You can help by:

  • encouraging your child to use the toilet before naps and bedtime
  • following a consistent bedtime routine
  • avoiding large drinks just before bed while ensuring your child drinks enough during the day
  • making it easy for your child to access the toilet if they wake during the night

If your child is still regularly wetting the bed after the age of 5, speak to a health professional for advice and support.

Toileting support and advice

If you are worried about your child's toileting, bladder or bowel habits, do not hesitate to ask for help. Early advice and support can make a real difference.

Remember, every child develops differently. With patience, encouragement and the right support, most children will learn to use the toilet successfully in their own time.

Where to get help

If you need advice or support, you can speak to: