Hello, Toddler Families
As we make our way through the month of September, we want to share that a very important part of the toddler classroom and our practical life curriculum is…toilet training! Believe it or not, all your children are in some stage of toilet training. Whether they are getting a diaper change while another child uses the toilet, sitting on the toilet during a diaper change (it is offered every time!), or are successfully sitting on and using the toilet, they are all learning lots about the process every day.
Here are some of the basics of Montessori toilet training which emphasize an appropriate environment, independence, self-directed learning, and respect for the child’s natural development.
Observation: Montessori encourages parents and caregivers to observe the child's readiness for toilet training. Look for signs such as the child showing interest in the bathroom, staying dry for longer periods, especially after naps or waking in the morning or demonstrating physical readiness.
Child-Centric Approach: The Montessori method advocates for allowing the child to take the lead in the toilet training process. This means respecting the child's pace and avoiding pressure.
Environment: Create a child-friendly and accessible environment in the bathroom. This may include having a toddler-sized potty that the child can easily use independently. Another option is a potty seat that sits on top of the regular sized toilet. Don’t forget the stool so that your toddler can reach the toilet or sink!
Independence: Foster independence by allowing the child to be actively involved in the toilet training process. Provide opportunities for them to undress, use the potty, and dress themselves. Toddlers love any opportunity to be independent. Even though it takes a little extra time to let them do it themselves, it will pay off in the long run as they become completely proficient in no time!
Routine and Consistency: Establish a consistent routine for bathroom breaks. Consistency helps the child develop a sense of order and predictability in the toilet training process. We change diapers and have our toddlers sit on the toilet every 2-3 hours at school. This gives them the opportunity to develop habits and to start to recognize when their diapers are wet/dirty and eventually when they need to use the toilet.
Communication: Teach the child appropriate words and phrases related to using the toilet and their bodies. Encourage them to communicate their needs and feelings, fostering effective communication in the process.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement to acknowledge the child's efforts and successes. Praise and encouragement help build the child's confidence and create a positive association with using the toilet. Some parents choose to use small treats, stickers, or prizes to encourage the child’s progress. This can be an effective way to create excitement and more positivity around the process at home.
Modeling: Children often learn by observing. Allow the child to witness and imitate bathroom behaviors by providing opportunities for them to accompany you or by using books and materials that illustrate the process. This is another benefit of your child being in a classroom setting, they can watch other children in many different stages of the process every day!
Patience and Understanding: Montessori toilet training emphasizes patience and understanding. Recognize that each child is unique and progress may vary. Avoid punishment or negative reinforcement and instead focus on supporting the child through the learning process. Also remember, regression sometimes happens. Respond to this by returning to more frequent trips to the toilet and with lots of praise and positivity. They will be back on track before you know it!
Remember that Montessori toilet training is a gradual and child-led process. Even though it can sometimes be frustrating for both children and parents, it can also be a great time to bond with each other. By creating a supportive and empowering environment, parents and caregivers can work together to help children develop independence and confidence in managing their toileting needs. We are grateful to continue partnering with you on this and excited to answer any questions you have regarding the subject.
We hope you all had a beautiful Rosh Hashanah, an easy fast for Yom Kippur, and are enjoying the beautiful holiday of Sukkot with this Autumn weather!
Kindly,
Morahs Megan and Sarah
