Toilet training

This is a key life skill and developmental stage that children learn at a young age, it can be difficult to get them into this habit however it is totally normal so be patient. 

All children are different however by the time they start school this skill should be one they can do independently. 

Children learn at their own pace and can control their bowel and bladder at different ages - the NHS states the different stages children could be at, at different ages:

by age 1, most babies have stopped doing poos at night

by age 2, some children will be dry during the day, but this is still quite early

by age 3, 9 out of 10 children are dry most days – even then, all children have the odd accident, especially when they're excited, upset or absorbed in something else

by age 4, most children are reliably dry during the day

It usually takes a little longer for children to learn to stay dry throughout the night. 

Although most learn this between the ages of 3 and 5, up to 1 in 5 children aged 5 sometimes wet the bed.

Encouraging the child to use the toilet is all you can do, they will learn in their own time as all children vary. 

It is important to start when your child doesn’t have much happening and your family routine is consistent, this allows them to make mistakes and learn easier.

If things are not going to plan and you are struggling or if your child is struggling to hold their bladder or if your child is not wanting to go to the toilet can be signs of other issues. 

 If you feel like something is not right you can talk to your GP or ask to talk to the school nurse for advice and guidance.