Potty training is an important milestone in your child’s development, and every child reaches it in their own time. At KatieB Kids, we support families through this stage with care, patience, and understanding, ensuring children feel confident, supported, and ready. Below, you’ll find our practical tips to help make the transition from nappies to the potty a positive experience for everyone.
Is my child ready for Potty training?
There is no magic age or single sign that tells you when your child is ready for potty training. Every child develops in their own way and at their own pace.
Current NHS guidance explains that most children are ready to begin toilet training between 18 months and 2 years. For some children, starting after 2½ to 3 years can make learning this new skill a little more challenging.
You may hear stories of children who trained very early with no accidents at all, but remember, potty training is not a race. It is not a measure of intelligence or ability, and comparisons are rarely helpful.
Signs Your Child May Be Nearly Ready
Your child may be developing awareness and control of their bladder and bowels if you notice some of the following:
They tell you when they are wet or dirty
They recognise when they are weeing or pooing (some children may go off to another room or hide behind furniture)
They can stay dry for an hour or more
They tell you they are about to go
You don’t need to see all of these signs. A few is often enough to suggest it may be time to give potty training a try.
Preparing for Potty Training
Before you begin, buy a large, comfortable potty and leave it indoors for a couple of weeks so it becomes part of everyday life.
Talk to your child about what it’s for and keep the tone positive and relaxed. Some children will sit on it straight away; others may use it as a hat or a toy store for a while!
Both reactions are completely normal — there’s no right or wrong at this stage.
Getting Started: Practical Tips
When you feel ready to begin:
Choose a week when you can stay mostly at home and give it your attention
If your child attends nursery, let the team know — they will be happy to support you
Take your child to the toilet whenever you go
Watch for signs they need to wee, such as wiggling, squirming, or hopping from foot to foot
Encourage plenty of drinks to help build bladder control over time
Expect accidents — they are part of learning. Clean up calmly and reassure your child
When your child attends nursery, please make sure their bag contains lots of spare clothes (including socks). Our educators understand that accidents are part of the process, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed or guilty.
Praise, Reassurance, and When to Pause
If your child manages to use the potty or toilet, gentle praise is enough — encouragement goes a long way without making it feel pressured.
Most importantly, if your child becomes distressed or upset, it’s absolutely fine to pause. Put the nappy back on, leave the potty around, and try again in a few weeks.
Children often learn simply by watching others in the household use the toilet. A relaxed, playful approach will always be more effective than pressure — a stressed child can take much longer to get there than one who is enjoying the journey.
Further Support and Helpful Resources
There are lots of excellent resources available to support you:
Your local library – picture books about using the toilet can be reassuring and fun to read together
ERIC – The Children’s Bladder and Bowel Charity – highly recommended for practical advice, including support for children with additional needs
The NHS website – clear guidance on potty training and common challenges
Finally, please remember that your child’s key person has lots of experience supporting children through potty training. They know your child well, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek reassurance — we’re here to help.