When Is the Best Time to Teach Toilet Training? Experts Weigh In

Starting toilet training is a significant milestone for parents and children, and experts emphasize that the right timing is key to success. According to pediatrician Meitha Pingkan Esther, the ideal window for introducing toilet training is between 12 and 36 months of age.

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the success of a child undergoing toilet training is determined by the accuracy of the implementation time.

During this period, children are in a phase of exploration and an 'anal phase,' making them receptive to learning about their bodies and using the toilet. By around 24 months, children typically develop the cognitive and emotional capacity to understand and communicate their needs, which are essential for successful training. Esther notes that the average age for toilet training completion in children without autism is around 2 years and 6 months, with many in the U.S. achieving daytime dryness by age 3.

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children with this age range like to explore the environment and experience the anal phase or the right time to introduce body parts, as a teaching medium for using the toilet.

However, Esther cautions that age alone is not a definitive indicator. Each child develops at their own pace. Parents should look for specific readiness signs. These include the child being able to hold their urine for 60 to 90 minutes, recognizing the sensation of a full bladder, sitting on the toilet for about 15 minutes, and being able to communicate their desire to use the bathroom. Observing these cues ensures a smoother and more positive training experience for both parent and child.

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at 24 months old, children can generally speak, understand conversations, and communicate.