Toilet training
18 months – 6 years · 4 min read
Children are ready for toilet training at very different ages. Many are ready between 2 and 3 years; children with developmental delays or autism often need longer and a more step-by-step approach. Readiness matters more than age.
What parents often notice
- Staying dry for an hour or two at a time.
- Showing they know when they are wet or soiled.
- Being able to sit for a short while and follow a simple instruction.
What helps at home
- Use a picture sequence of the steps on the bathroom wall.
- Take them at regular times (after waking, after meals, before going out) rather than asking “do you need to go?”
- Keep it calm and positive; never punish accidents.
- Use the same words and routine every time, at home and with other caregivers.
When to talk to a professional
- No progress after several months of trying, pain, constipation, or a return to wetting after being dry.
Who can help
- Paediatrician
- Occupational therapist
Sources
Last updated 28 September 2026 · General information, not medical advice. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for a qualified professional.