Helping children build early toileting skills with confidence: strategies for early years practitioners

Toilet training is a big milestone in early childhood, and many education professionals tell us they’re unsure when or how to begin supporting children with Down syndrome. June Rogers MBE, independent Paediatric Continence Specialist, shares practical strategies to help you feel confident supporting children with Down syndrome in your setting. 

Building the foundations early 

Progress starts long before a child is ‘ready’, and early, gentle skill‑building makes the whole journey easier. Children need opportunities to learn about wees, poos and the toileting routine long before formal toilet training begins. Encourage early potty sitting once weaning is established, and use simple communication tools such as signs, pictures and their family words for wee and poo. Don’t expect instant success, this is about helping the child become familiar with the potty and the concept of toileting.  

Creating a routine that supports learning 

Gradually increase sitting time and introduce both potty and toilet options to help children feel comfortable in different settings. Include regular potty or toilet sits in the daily routine to ensure predictability, such as before and after meals. Help children understand what toileting involves by looking at picture books, watching appropriate videos, playing games and using social stories.  

Keeping children motivated 

Some children are not naturally bothered by being wet, so positive reinforcement is key to keeping children motivated. A toilet toy, praise or a small reward can help, especially when children are beginning to understand the purpose of sitting.  

Moving towards timed toileting 

Early years practitioners can support families to record dry intervals, notice when wees typically happen after drinks and introduce regular sits based on this information. Once a child is successful more than half the time, they may be ready for pants.   

Supporting the transition to pants 

Expect and be ready for lots of frequent little wees and wetting accidents. These early accidents are a part of learning bladder control, as children begin to recognise new sensations. You may need to offer reassurance to families and gently remind them to provide spare changes of clothes, socks and footwear.  

Supporting children who are pre-verbal  

Children who are pre-verbal can absolutely be toilet trained, it is a common myth that children need to be able to verbalise they need a wee or poo first. But there is no need to wait – it is important to remember children understand more than you think. We just need to check the child understand words for toileting and understand the concept. Consistent use of signs, words or pictures can support children who are pre‑verbal or are still developing communication skills. 

A final word 

Toilet training is a journey made up of many small steps, and every child’s path looks different. What matters most is giving children the chance to learn, practise and feel proud of their progress, and offering support and reassurance to their families too. With the right support, many children with Down syndrome begin developing toileting skills earlier than families expect, and this confidence carries into school and beyond. 

Explore our resources  

• Toilet Training upcoming sessions for parents and professionals. 
• Toilet training best practice for professionals. 
• Early Years Development Programme.