Toilet training is a significant milestone in a child’s development, and it’s a process that can be approached with patience, encouragement, and understanding. At kinderzimmer, we work closely with parents and caregivers to make potty training a positive and successful experience for both children and families. Every child develops at their own pace, and we believe that a supportive environment, paired with consistency, helps make this transition smoother.
In this blog, we’ll share how we approach potty training at our nursery, along with some helpful tips for parents and educators to ensure the process is a calm and successful one.
The key to successful potty training is waiting until your child shows signs of readiness. Pushing too early can lead to frustration; while waiting for your child to be physically and emotionally ready helps build confidence.
At kinderzimmer, we work with parents to identify readiness signals, such as:
Increased Awareness: If your child starts showing an awareness of wet or soiled nappies, it may be a sign that they are ready for potty training. Your child will need to be able to communicate bowel movements before potty training can begin. E.g being able to say “wee wee”.
Predictable Bowel Movements: Regular, predictable bowel movements are a good indication that a child is gaining control of their bodily functions.
Interest in the Potty: When children show curiosity in the potty or mimic older siblings or adults using the toilet, they may be ready to begin potty training.
We encourage parents to follow their child’s cues and start potty training when they feel confident that the time is right.
Consistency is key in potty training, and collaboration between the nursery and home is essential for a smooth process. We maintain open communication with parents to ensure that the potty-training routine established at home is mirrored in our nursery. We also use our kinderzimmer app to communicate with parents, letting them know any updates throughout the day. We ask parents to start at home for a few days first before we introduce into nursery.
Coordinated Plan: We work with parents to develop a potty-training plan that fits the child’s needs. This includes discussing when to begin, which words to use, and how the process feels for the child.
Routine and Reminders: We will sensitively give prompts throughout the day to see if the child would like to try and use the potty.
Praise and Encouragement: Positive reinforcement goes a long way in boosting a child’s confidence. We celebrate small successes, whether it’s sitting on the potty or recognising when they need to go. Acknowledging their efforts makes children feel proud and motivated to keep trying. We give lots of high-fives in celebrations of trying. At kinderzimmer we do not promote sticker charts so would recommend not using these at home.
Toileting Experiences: We incorporate many elements in how we teach children how to use the potty/toilet. We read stories on using the toilet, sing songs, to make it an enjoyable part of the day. We practice by encouraging the child to put a doll on the potty etc., making it all part of fun play. This approach helps children feel more relaxed and comfortable.
Include them in decision making: Take your child to the shops to choose their own potty, or their pull ups if you choose to use pull ups during potty training.
Setbacks are a normal part of potty training, and it’s important to approach them with patience and understanding. At our nursery, we never rush children or expect perfection.
Accidents Happen: Accidents are a natural part of the learning process. When they occur, we reassure children that it’s okay, clean up quickly, and encourage them to try again next time. Keeping a calm, supportive tone helps prevent children from feeling discouraged.
Building Confidence: Some children may need more time to gain confidence. We work at each child’s pace, offering plenty of encouragement without pressure. Our educators are there to provide support every step of the way.
At our nursery, we understand that potty training is a journey that requires time, patience, and collaboration. We believe that by working closely with parents and providing a supportive environment, we can help children gain confidence and independence as they take this important step in their development.
Our team is always here to offer guidance and answer any questions you may have. Whether it’s creating a personalised potty-training plan or offering practical advice, we’re committed to ensuring that your child has a positive and successful potty-training experience.
Potty training is an exciting milestone for children and families, and with the right approach, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. At kinderzimmer, we prioritise collaboration with parents and create a nurturing, supportive environment where children feel encouraged to learn at their own pace. By making potty training a positive experience, we help children build confidence and independence on their journey towards becoming fully toilet trained.
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