Learning to use the toilet is a big step and it happens slowly and in stages. Some children take longer than others, and that’s okay. Every child develops toilet skills at their own pace and in the way that works for them.
Health and development can affect your child’s learning. With the right support, children can learn to feel confident, and independent in their toilet routine. Your patience, consistency, and encouragement will help your child build these skills.
We have tips, charts and checklists to help you and your child get started and track progress. While the advice is relevant to all children, you’ll find notes to help those who may need extra support.
If your child is having ongoing difficulties, it’s a good idea to get advice from a health professional.
Is your child ready to learn toilet skills?
Look out for signs your child is ready and access resources to help you support them.
Help your child sit comfortably on the toilet
Ways to make your child feel safe and relaxed, which helps them move from potty to toilet.
How to start a new toilet routine
Tips to help you start the process of toilet training, which is a big change and a new skill.
Tips to make toilet time relaxed
Practical ideas to help your child feel calm during toilet time as they learn new skills.
Toilet skills for children with disability
Some children may need extra time and tailored strategies to learn toilet skills.
Track your child’s toilet skills progress
Your child will need lots of help at first, but as they learn you can slowly step back.
When your child may need help toileting
Find help for your child if teaching toilet skills isn’t going smoothly.
Step-by-step picture guide
A printable picture guide to help your child learn toilet skills.
Healthy habits that help with toilet learning
A healthy bladder and bowel are essential for your child’s readiness to learn toilet skills.
Terms often used by health professionals
- ‘Teaching toilet skills’ (also known as toilet training) describes the role of parents, carers and educators in supporting children.
- ‘Learning toilet skills’ describes the child’s experience.
- ‘Wee’ can also be called urine.
- ‘Poo’ can also be called faeces, stools and bowel motions.
- ‘Voiding’ is the action to release wee (urinate) and poo (defecate).
This content has been reviewed by subject matter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.
Continence Health Australia acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government through the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People.
