Navigating Potty Training and Daycare Requirements

You’ve been dreaming of no more diapers; you are envisioning your little one running happily to the bathroom on his or her own. Yet the thought of potty training seems daunting and overwhelming. Where to start, when, and how are always some of the questions that come up. But now you may face a timeline and some added pressure of getting your little potty trained because your preschool or daycare requires it. Don’t worry take a deep breath and know that so many before you were in your shoes now. The goal is to potty train your little one in a way that is positive and fun, making it almost like a game. What we don’t want is to create a stressful situation that causes anxiety for your child.

Potty training is a developmental milestone that marks a significant transition for you, the parent, and your child. Almost like a rite of passage. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies for potty training and discuss daycare requirements associated with this developmental stage.

Effective Strategies for Potty Training:

1. Timing is Key. Introduce potty training when your child shows signs of readiness, such as staying dry for longer periods, expressing discomfort with wet or soiled diapers, or showing interest in the toilet. Usually around 2 to 2.5 years old, your child may show signs of potty readiness. Many daycares have potty training rules and different fees associated with potty training. My first advice would be to seek out a daycare or preschool, if possible, that doesn’t require potty training. Taking out a forced timeline will automatically relieve so much stress from both of you. If that isn’t possible, it may be time for a week of what I like to call a “Potty Party.”

2. Block off a stretch of uninterrupted time for a few days. Let the “Potty Party” begin. Take a special outing to the store and let your little one pick out their favorite underwear, snacks, and drinks, all while talking them up and explaining there is going to be a potty party. I even went as far as getting party hats and blowers to celebrate each time they used the potty. You can either buy a tiny potty so they can easily get on and off or use a potty seat with a stool. Let your child go naked around the house, making it easy for them to use the potty without the worry of clothes to pull down or get out of the way.

3. Create a consistent potty schedule. Time for a timer and set it for every 15 min or so; when the timer goes off, it’s time for your little one to sit on the potty. Even if they don’t have to go, have them sit and at least try.

4. Positive Reinforcement. Offer praise and encouragement for successful attempts, regardless of the outcome. Clap, smile, and cheer them on, celebrate small victories, and avoid punishment or pressure for accidents.

5. Use of Rewards. This is where you bring out some of the items they picked out during your shopping outing. It can be a little snack, stickers, or whatever they helped pick out as rewards for using the bathroom. I always used smaller items for urine and bigger items for a bowel movement. Rewards go a long way with little ones.

6. Modeling Behavior. Allow your child to observe and imitate older siblings or you using the toilet. This can help normalize the process and reduce anxiety.

7. Patience and Persistence. Understand that accidents are a natural part of the learning process. Stay patient, remain consistent with your approach, and avoid rushing or pressuring your child.

Daycare Requirements and Potty Training:

Many daycare facilities have guidelines to ensure a smooth transition for children and staff. While these requirements may vary, here are some common expectations:

1. Age and Developmental Milestones: Daycare centers may have age requirements for potty training, typically around the age of two or older. Additionally, some facilities may require children to demonstrate certain developmental milestones, such as verbal communication or motor skills related to using the toilet independently.

2. Communication with Parents: Open and honest communication between parents and daycare staff is vital during potty training. Be sure to inform the daycare of your child’s progress, any specific routines or strategies you’re using at home, and any challenges or concerns you may have.

3. Providing Supplies: Most schools or daycare will require you to bring your own supplies. When potty training, make sure to bring a lot of clean underwear and clothes with your child to school. Some daycares may require parents to supply their children with diapers, pull-ups, or extra clothing during the potty-training phase. You can never have enough extra clothes during this time. So, the more extra clothes, the better. It’s very normal for little ones to have many accidents at school initially. They get very involved in their fun activities and forget to make it to the bathroom in time. It’s all part of the learning experience.

4. Consistency with Home Routine: Daycare providers often appreciate consistency between home and daycare routines. Teachers work hard trying to help with potty training, and for ultimate success you all must be doing similar things with your child both at school and at home so they can be successful with the transition to being potty trained.

One last key to potty training is a loving reminder of grace and patience. Ultimately, potty training will happen on your child’s terms and timing. It’s a time for patience and lots of grace for all of you. They will ultimately be trained, and these hard moments will be fast forgotten as they excitedly begin to use the bathroom on a regular basis.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amber Jayne is an early childhood education expert, creator of The Loving Start Learning Centers and The Loving Start Way Community, author of the ABC’s of Preschool, and host of the ABC’s of Preschool Podcast. With over two decades of experience under her belt, Amber is not just an expert – she’s a visionary. Dedicated to empowering mothers, inspiring teachers, nurturing children, and elevating childcare centers, Amber leads with love at the center of all she does. Curious to learn more about Amber or eager to embark on your own journey in early childhood education Visit www.thelovingstartway.com to connect with this remarkable trailblazer and possibly become a part of her thriving community.