As your child prepares for school, one of the most important skills we can build together is toileting independence. This milestone helps children feel confident, comfortable, and ready to learn. We recommend that your child is fully potty trained before the start of the school year.
What Does It Mean to Be "Fully Potty Trained?"
A fully potty-trained student should be able to do the following entirely on their own:
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Come to school in regular underwear (no diapers or pull-ups).
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Communicate a clear, timely need to use the bathroom to an adult.
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Independently toilet (pull down pants/underwear, sit safely on the toilet or stand at a urinal, and void).
- Manage clean-up hygiene (use toilet paper to wipe and discard appropriately, flush, and wash/dry hands completely).
Navigating Challenges
Accidents happen: It's normal for children to have occasional accidents. Stay calm and offer positive reinforcement.
School support: If your child has frequent accidents, discuss potential accommodations with their teacher (potty schedule or incentive system)
Professional Help: If you are faced with significant challenges, please consult with your child's provider.
What happens if my student has an accident at school?
For Urine (Pee) Accidents: Students will change into dry clothes at school.
For Bowel Movements (Poop): Parents or legal guardians will be contacted to pick up their child so they can be thoroughly cleaned and comfortable at home.
Understanding Expectations in TK/K
Be consistent: Encourage your child to wear underwear to school and practice using the bathroom independently.
Communicate needs: Help your child understand and communicate when they need to use the bathroom.
Independence: Encourage and support your child's own ability to pull pants up/down, sit on the toilet or stand at the urinal, and empty.
Hygiene practices: Teach and affirm your child to use toilet paper, wipe, flush, and wash and dry hands.