Toilet Independence

WSM hosts an Education Series for caregivers called Aid to Life. This blog contains content from the Toilet Independence workshop by Holly Tosco, Director of Toddler and Children’s House Programs.

“We don’t train children to use the toilet, we support them when they are ready.”

— How to Raise an Amazing Child: The Montessori way to bring up caring confident children, by Tim Seldin

“There should be no pressure, no reward or punishment, no adult deciding when the child should learn to use the potty. The environment is prepared, and the child is free to explore and imitate in these natural developmental stages.”

— The Joyful Child

Your child may be ready to become toilet-independent anytime from 18 months - 3 years old. Prepare them for the experience by bringing positivity, preparing the environment, and giving your patience.

This blog will use the phrase ‘toilet independence’ instead of ‘potty training’ or ‘toilet training’ because it aligns with respecting the child’s journey towards independence.

The Montessori Toilet Independence Process:

1. Prepare the environment.

   • Useful items to acquire:

     • A step stool

     • A child-sized seat on the toilet

     • Extra clothes that are easy to use for a child

     • Easy to access laundry bins.

These key items make the process easier for both you and your child. A prepared environment is the foundation of the Montessori approach.

2. Teach the child step by step

• Take the time to discuss each step when using the toilet.

3. Allow them to explore imperfectly

• The child may change the sequence of steps or not complete the steps. That is OK. Supporting the child’s independence with positivity is essential to the process.

4. Incorporate the toilet into their routine

• After meals and during transition times are good opportunities to ask your child to use the toilet.

We hope this helps create a peaceful, empowering, easy next step towards independence. You got this!

To learn more about the Montessori way, check out Montessori: From the Start . To give fundraising credit to our school, search for Montessori School of Winston-Salem or enter WSM’s customer number, 167168.

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