Potty training is one of the most exciting milestones of the toddler years. It’s a big step toward independence, and a proud moment for your child and your whole family.

The best news? There’s no race and no perfect age. Pediatricians agree that your child’s readiness matters far more than the date on the calendar.

When do most children start?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, many children show signs of readiness between 18 and 24 months, while others aren’t ready until well after their second birthday. Every child grows on their own timeline, and both are perfectly normal.

8 signs your child may be ready

Your child doesn’t need to show every sign. Several of these together are a great cue to get started:

  1. Stays dry for two hours or more, or wakes up dry from naps
  2. Has fairly regular, predictable bowel movements
  3. Shows interest in the bathroom or in what grown-ups and older children do there
  4. Tells you, with words or gestures, when their diaper is wet or dirty
  5. Notices when they need to go, such as pausing, squatting or hiding
  6. Can walk to the bathroom and sit down on a potty
  7. Can pull pants up and down with a little help
  8. Can follow simple, one-step directions

Tips for a positive start

  • Make it fun and low-pressure. Read potty books together and let your child pick out a potty seat or new underwear.
  • Build it into the routine. Invite your child to sit on the potty after waking, after meals and before bath time.
  • Celebrate effort, not just success. A high-five or sticker for trying builds confidence.
  • Expect accidents and stay calm. Accidents are part of learning. A cheerful “Let’s try again next time” keeps your child motivated.
  • Dress for success. Easy pull-on pants help your child do it on their own.

Working together with your child’s teachers

Consistency between home and school helps children learn faster. Let your child’s teacher know when you’re ready to begin, share what words you use at home, and ask how the day went at pick-up. At Stepping Stone School, our Toddler and Preschool teachers partner with families to support each child’s potty training journey. 

Celebrate every step

Potty training is a journey filled with small wins, and each one is worth celebrating. Want to learn how our teachers support toddlers through milestones like this one? Explore our Toddler program or find a school near you to schedule a tour.

About the Author
Stepping Stone School
Stepping Stone School was created by a mother with a vision. Rhonda Paver and her husband Bill arrived in Austin in 1979 with their first three children. After searching for affordable, quality early care and education for her own children, Rhonda believed the children of Austin deserved something better than what she was finding.