Readiness signs used to define the proper moment to start toilet training: A review of the literature

Abstract

Confusion exists about when to start toilet training, which causes stress and anxiety. Another consequence can be the actual postponement of the toilet training process, which has created extra social problems. Therefore, in this review we will focus on the proper moment to start toilet training, more specific on readiness signs. This will clarify on which topics further research is necessary. We searched databases for publications on toilet training. Next, we gathered information about the normal development of healthy children and at which age skills needed for each readiness sign are acquired. Twenty-one readiness signs were found. Our results show that there is no consensus on which or how many readiness signs to use. Depending on the readiness sign, the moment to start toilet training can vary a lot. More studies are needed to define which readiness signs are most important and how to detect them easily.

Toilet training in healthy children: Results of a questionnaire study involving parents who make use of day‐care at least once a week

“…The most significant reason indicated by the parents for starting TT was that the child showed certain signals and skills, which is in line with the current recommendations concerning the importance of signs of toilet readiness . A recent literature review shows that consensus is currently lacking on which, or how many signs are needed to show a child's readiness for TT . To achieve a consensus, obtain research‐based guidelines and avoid psychological, physical, and social problems, more research on the right time to start is needed …”

“…A recent literature review shows that consensus is currently lacking on which, or how many signs are needed to show a child's readiness for TT . To achieve a consensus, obtain research‐based guidelines and avoid psychological, physical, and social problems, more research on the right time to start is needed …”

Toilet training in daycare centers in Flanders, Belgium

“…Starting TT based only on age can have negative consequences if the child is not yet ready [1,2,10,14]. A recent literature review shows that currently consensus is lacking on which or how many RS are needed to decide on a child's readiness for TT [22]. Depending on the RS used, the moment to start TT can vary a great deal [22].…”

“…A recent literature review shows that currently consensus is lacking on which or how many RS are needed to decide on a child's readiness for TT [22]. Depending on the RS used, the moment to start TT can vary a great deal [22]. More research is needed to Table 3 Which indicators do childcare workers use to define whether a child is potty-trained?…”

“…Other than the abovementioned topics (e.g., advice, cooperation between parents and daycare, best moment to start with TT, problems with TT) 24 6.1 reach consensus, obtain research-based guidelines, and avoid problems [22]. It is noteworthy that TT takes so much time per day.…”