Toilet Training & Toddlers

I recently was approached for some advice about toilet training toddlers and thought it would be important to share some information regarding The School Houses' approach to this subject. You might be surprised by our approach to 'toilet training.' Parent's often ask, "How do you potty train?" and I am usually at a loss for a real answer to give, as this process within our classroom is very fluid. It happens so gradually that it sometimes goes unnoticed until the accomplishment has been made. In the Lynx classroom we offer the potty to children whenever we change their diaper. Sometimes they show interest when they see a peer trying it. Sometimes they sit with their diaper still on, just to try it out. We cultivate a culture of the toilet being a very common thing in our daily routines with the children. In doing this, children are not pressured to meet this milestone before they are ready and diapering/potty time remains a positive time for attachment building and connection. We never force a child to use or sit on the toilet, but offer it very frequently when we know a child is close to mastering this new life skill.  Below I have linked some articles from Janet Lansbury. She is an educator whose childcare philosophies are very influential to our practices at The School House. Similar to Janet, much of how we approach toileting and diapering is done with the RIE Approach. Janet also has an amazing podcast that you can find online. I listen to her every day while I get ready for work on my Spotify! 
Janet Lansbury Article 1
Janet Lansbury Article 2
You might find that your child is no where near ready to reach for this 'milestone.' If you find that to be true, this article is for you!
If you are ever nervous or have questions regarding potty training please reach out to our educators as we are here to support you and your family! 
-Hayley

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