Toilet Training Tips

Top Toilet Training Tips:

Why Kids Master Wees First and What To Do About Poos…

Specific toilet training tips can really help with progression through this developmental milestone. If your toddler has cracked the code for ‘wee’ but refuses to ‘poo’ in the toilet or potty, you’re not alone. This is a common theme. Many parents find that wee training falls into place first, while poo training can take weeks (or months) longer. Here’s the most important toilet training tip: It’s normal! Having said that, it doesn’t make it any less frustrating when you feel like you’ve tried everything. Here are some interesting science based toilet training facts:

There is little evidence supporting specific methods of toilet training.
Toilet training should be started when both the child and parent are willing and able to participate.
A positive, consistent approach to toilet training is unlikely to cause long-term harm.

Also, according to an article from Science Direct, there seems to be no ‘one method of toilet training being superior to another’.

Here are some straightforward, evidence-based toilet training tips to help you through this milestone and remind you that you’re not doing anything wrong.

✅ 1. Let Them Take the Lead

While you’re guiding your child, give them a sense of control. Let your child choose which potty or toilet seat to use, flush the toilet themselves, or pick a favourite book to look at while sitting. Feeling in charge helps reduce battles and builds confidence.

✅ 2. Check for Constipation

Even mild constipation can make kids avoid doing poo in the toilet. It can hurt, so they hold it in, which can make things worse. Watch for signs: how often are they going and are the poos soft and easy to pass? If you suspect any holding or discomfort, check in with your GP or pharmacist. Sometimes kids need a bit of help to clear things up so they can get comfortable again.

✅ 3. Make the Toilet Comfortable and Warm

Cold seats or a chilly bathroom can put kids off. Try warming up the space or running warm water nearby. A child seat and a sturdy footstool (so knees are higher than hips) can help kids feel secure. After meals is the best time to try as their body naturally wants to go potty then.

✅ 4. Don’t Ask – Tell (one of THE best top toilet training tips)

Most toddlers will automatically say, “no” if you ask if they need to go. Instead, watch for signs like hiding, fidgeting or holding their pants. Calmly tell them what you see and what it means: “You’re jumping up and down. That tells me your body needs the toilet. Off we go.”

✅ 5. Model What You Want to See

Kids learn best by watching. Let them see you (or older siblings) using the toilet so it feels normal and safe for them. You can also tip their poo from a nappy into the toilet and say, “Poo goes in the toilet and we can help it get there,” so they link the idea that poo belongs in the potty, not the nappy.

✅ 6. Keep It Short and Positive

Sitting too long can feel like punishment, so keep it to about five minutes. If nothing happens, get them up and try again later. Praise your child for trying and sitting, not just for results. If there’s an accident, stay calm and matter-of-fact: “Your job is to help the poo get to the toilet when it’s ready.”

✅ 7. Use Gentle Motivators

Some kids need a little extra encouragement. A sticker chart, small reward or a special book or toy that comes out only at toilet time, can help.

✅ 8. Make It Easier with Timing and Clothing

Toilet training is often easier in warm weather. Kids can run around nappy-free and feel the urge more clearly. Dressing them in clothes they can pull down quickly, like elastic waisted pants, makes a big difference too.

✅ 9. Expect Accidents When Out

Accidents on outings are super common. Pack spare clothes and remind your child to try for a wee regularly. Try not to stress. Once the poo side clicks at home, staying dry and clean when out and about usually follows.

✅ 10. Step Back if You Need To (another of THE best toilet training tips)

If it’s turning into a daily battle or you’re both feeling stressed, it’s completely okay to take the pressure off and revisit in a few weeks. Many kids do better with a short break. Sometimes a fresh start is all it takes to make real progress.