PH-09-go-again
GO AGAIN Toilet learning is not always smooth, and setbacks are normal. Even after mastering the process, children may have accidents, often because they are too engaged in play to notice their body’s signals. It can take months for children to consistently recognize and control their bladder. Common reasons for setbacks include: Fear of change: […]
PH-09-go-other-information
OTHER INFORMATION TRANSITIONING TO UNDERWEAR Once a child consistently uses the toilet at home and school, they may be ready for underwear. Start by having them wear cloth underwear at home for a few days before transitioning to school. Pull-ups can delay progress since they feel like diapers, so direct transition to underwear is often […]
PH-09-go-process
PROCESS Children often have more success using the toilet at home than at school, where play can be a distraction. First Circle educators support toilet learning by encouraging regular bathroom visits, asking if children need to go, recognizing body language cues, and teaching proper wiping techniques. At home, consistency is key. Ensure all toileting essentials […]
PH-09-go
GO! Once your child feels comfortable and confident that they have “mastered” some or all of these experiences, they are ready for the next steps. It can be helpful to think of toilet learning as a partnership with your child in which you both have your own jobs to do. It is the parent’s responsibility […]
PH-09-get-set-at-home
AT HOME Creating a comfortable, child-friendly bathroom setup is key. Choose between a potty chair or a toilet seat with a sturdy stool—letting your child help pick can boost excitement. To prepare: Let your child explore the potty seat fully clothed. Encourage practice with flushing, pulling pants up/down, and sitting/standing. Watch for cues that they […]
PH-09-get-set
GET SET Once a child has shown most of the readiness signs, it is time to prepare the environment at home to best support the start of the process. As each child’s individual signs of readiness and curiosity about the bathroom emerge, First Circle educators begin encouraging toilet learning by: walking into the bathroom together […]
PH-09-get-ready-readiness-indicators
READINESS INDICATORS Toilet learning should start when a child shows readiness and curiosity. Three key factors must be in place: PHYSICAL: Bladder and bowel control COGNITIVE: Awareness of the need to use the toilet EMOTIONAL: Comfort and willingness to participate Signs of readiness may include staying dry for at least two hours, following simple instructions, […]
PH-09-get-ready-average-age
AVERAGE AGE The medical fact is that the ability to control bladder and bowel functions is individual to each child. Some two-year-olds are fully using the toilet, and some are not. The average age of readiness varies among all children, and even differs between girls and boys. The physical maturity and readiness skills needed for […]
PH-09-get-ready
GET READY The most important part of successful toilet learning is to remember it starts with the child. Effective toilet learning doesn’t begin until the child shows signs that they are physically, cognitively, and emotionally ready. There is no standard or imposed “right” age or stage to start toilet learning. Just as each child learns […]
PH-09-toilet-learning
TOILET LEARNING Toilet learning is a natural developmental milestone, best achieved through a supportive partnership between families and educators. We emphasize “toilet learning” over “toilet training” because children actively participate in the process rather than being trained by adults. At First Circle, we help children: Recognize when they need to use the toilet Communicate their […]