Potty training – Helping your child get ready for starting school
Is your child starting school soon? There’s still time to help them build confidence with using the toilet independently.
Starting school is a big milestone for children and their families. One of the skills that can help children feel more confident and independent at school is being able to use the toilet by themselves.
The Best Start in Life Toilet Training campaign has been launched to support parents and carers of children aged 3 to 4 who are preparing to start school. The campaign offers practical, reassuring advice and reminds families that it’s never too late to help a child develop their confidence and independence with using the toilet.
Five practical steps to potty training
The NHS guidance suggests five simple steps to help your child:
- Tell your child what’s happening – help them understand what using the toilet or potty involves.
- Stop using nappies during the day – when your child is ready, give them the opportunity to use the potty or toilet without nappies.
- Help your child use the potty or toilet regularly – establish a routine and give them plenty of opportunities to practice.
- Praise their efforts – encourage your child and celebrate their attempts, not just when they get it right.
- Help your child build confidence with new skills – support them to gradually become more independent with managing clothing, wiping, flushing and washing their hands.
Every child develops at their own pace, so try to be patient and positive. Building confidence can take time, and accidents are a normal part of learning.
Find advice and support
The NHS Best Start in Life website has practical information to help families with potty training, as well as a wide range of free advice and resources covering pregnancy, babies, children and getting ready for school.
Find out more about potty training and helping your child get ready for school:
Visit the NHS Best Start in Life potty training guidance