Toilet learning is a lifelong skill a young child begins to learn and successfully complete by the age of 3. Teaching your child to learn to use the bathroom can be a challenge as they need to build awareness to their bodily function. Consistency and time are fundamental keys in having the learning process be successful for your child.
Partnership:
We partner with all of our families when we see the child is showing signs of using the bathroom. Before the child is ready for underwear, we start having the child help with the process. In our infant room the children develop the routine for diapering, they learn that the diapering process is a good experience by the teacher talking with the infant as they change their diaper, the order of diapering for the child is consistent. In our Toddler community, the children learn to get their own diapers and wipes, pull their pants up and down, invited to use the toilet as they are diapered in a bathroom. Making each diapering experience and later on the toileting experience as calm and child friendly is beneficial to the process.
Preparing the environment:
1. Having a small toilet or an insert is critical in introducing the toilet to your child.
2. Having a stool so your child can independently reach the toilet and the sink.
3. Have a basket of books for your child to read on toilet learning and/or their favorites gives them some time to sit and focus on something other than using the toilet.
4. A basket of underwear and extra pants in case of an accident, it is right their for your child to put on clean cloths.
5. A laundry hamper for soiled cloths.
Consistency:
Once you are ready to make the commitment to toilet learning, consistency is key to your child’s success. Establishing a routine of when your child should go and use the toilet so your child builds toileting into their daily routine and is helpful when it comes time to giving reminders to your child. Once your ready to begin the process stick only to underwear. It is confusing to the child to place them in underwear one minute and a diaper the next. Your child needs to feel what happens when their bladder is full and they don’t discharge in the toilet. Using language such as, “You peed, we need to get changed” will help your child understand the association of what just happened.
End Result:
By creating a relaxing environment that is routine and consistent, your child will become independent and successful. Maria Montessori said, “It is through freedom and environmental experience is it practically possible for human development to occur.”