Toilet Training Support at Our Nursery
Toilet training is a big step for toddlers and their families, and we are here to make the journey as calm and positive as possible. At our nursery, most children are gently encouraged to begin toilet training somewhere between 18–30 months. However, we know that every child develops at their own pace, and we never rush or compare children. Instead, we look for signs that your child is ready and build their confidence with lots of praise and reassurance.
Our approach is based on kindness, patience, and consistency. We follow guidance from ERIC, the UK children’s bowel and bladder charity, to inform our everyday practice, while keeping things simple and child-friendly. We work closely in partnership with you, sharing what is happening at nursery and listening to what works at home. Together, we agree on a plan so your child receives the same clear messages and routines in both places. You can always talk to us about any worries or questions—no concern is too small. Our team will support you and your child every step of the way.
Practical, ERIC-Inspired Toilet Training Strategies
Spotting Signs of Readiness
Look for signs that your child may be ready to start toilet training, such as staying dry for longer periods, noticing when they are wet or soiled, hiding to poo, or showing interest in the toilet or potty. At home and in nursery, adults can gently comment on these signs (for example, “Your nappy is dry, well done”) and offer regular chances to sit on the potty or toilet without pressure. Starting when your child shows these cues helps build confidence and reduces stress for everyone.
Using Simple, Consistent Language
Choose a few clear words or phrases for wees, poos, and the toilet, and use them consistently. At home, repeat the same calm instructions each time, such as “Let’s sit on the toilet” or “Time to try for a wee.” Share your chosen words with the nursery team so they can mirror them in the setting. This consistency helps your child understand what is expected and reduces confusion, especially for children who find language or change more difficult.
Creating Predictable Routines
Regular, predictable toilet opportunities help children learn what comes next. At home, build toilet sits into everyday routines, such as after waking, after meals, and before going out. In nursery, staff can follow a similar pattern, linking toilet time to familiar parts of the day like snack time or outdoor play. Using visual timetables, simple pictures, or a short step-by-step sequence can support children who benefit from extra structure and reassurance.
Encouraging Regular Toilet Sits
Offer short, relaxed toilet or potty sits rather than waiting for your child to ask. Aim for a few minutes at a time, with a footstool and child seat if needed so they feel secure. At home and in nursery, avoid forcing or rushing; if nothing happens, praise the effort and let them get on with their play. Keeping a simple record of when your child usually wees or poos can help both parents and nursery staff choose the most helpful times to offer a sit.
Using Praise and Rewards Wisely
Focus praise on effort and progress, not perfection. At home, notice small steps such as sitting on the toilet, telling an adult they need to go, or staying dry for a bit longer. In nursery, staff can use the same style of specific praise, for example, “You told me you needed a wee, that was brilliant.” If you use rewards, keep them small and consistent, like stickers or choosing a story, and agree with the nursery team how and when they will be used so your child gets the same clear message in both places.
Handling Accidents Calmly
Accidents are a normal part of learning and do not mean your child has failed. At home, respond with calm, neutral language, help your child get cleaned up, and offer a fresh try later. In nursery, staff should follow the same approach, avoiding blame, shame, or jokes about the accident. Quietly reassuring your child (“Oops, that happens. Let’s get you clean”) helps protect their self-esteem and makes it more likely they will keep trying and tell an adult next time.
Supporting Children With Additional Needs
Some children need more time, structure, or specialist support. At home, break the process into small, manageable steps and repeat them in the same way each time. Visual supports, timers, and clear routines can be especially helpful. Share any professional advice or health plans with the nursery team so they can mirror strategies, such as extra time to get to the toilet, adapted seating, or sensory adjustments. Working together, parents and nursery staff can review what is going well, adjust expectations, and celebrate every bit of progress, however small.
Toilet Training: Parent FAQs
What if my child isn’t ready at 30 months?
Every child develops at their own pace. We look for signs of readiness rather than focusing on age alone. If your child isn’t ready yet, we’ll pause, reduce pressure, and try again later. Please speak to a member of staff so we can plan a gentle, child‑led approach together and, if helpful, signpost you to ERIC resources.
How do you manage resistance or fear of the toilet?
We use reassurance, patience, and play. Children are never forced to sit on the toilet. Instead, we offer short, positive visits, fun books or songs, and lots of praise for any small step. Talk to us about what works at home so we can mirror it here and, if needed, we can guide you towards ERIC’s practical tips.
What if my child is constipated or withholding?
Constipation and withholding are common and can make toilet training harder. We watch for signs, keep routines relaxed, and never punish accidents. Please discuss any concerns with staff so we can adapt your child’s plan and encourage you to seek medical advice if needed. We can also signpost you to ERIC’s specialist bowel and bladder information.
How does the nursery handle accidents?
Accidents are expected and never treated as a concern or embarrassing. We calmly help children change, clean up, and offer reassurance and praise for trying. Our aim is to protect their confidence and comfort. If accidents increase, we’ll talk with you about possible causes and next steps, including ERIC guidance where appropriate.
How can parents and staff stay consistent?
Consistency helps children feel secure. We agree simple routines with you, such as when to offer toilet trips, what language to use, and how to praise effort. We’ll share what we’re doing here and ask you to mirror this at home as much as possible. Please chat with staff regularly so we can review progress together and signpost ERIC resources if extra support is needed.
When should I ask for more personalised advice?
You can talk to us at any time—whether you’re just starting, feeling stuck, or worried about your child’s progress. We’re here to listen, reassure, and adapt our approach to your child. For more complex questions, we can help you prepare to speak with a health professional and direct you to trusted ERIC resources for further guidance.