The long summer holidays can offer an opportunity to gently begin or revisit toilet training. With warmer weather, fewer layers of clothing, and sometimes a little more flexibility in routines, there may be space for some families to slow things down and follow their child’s lead.

Toileting is a big sensory experience for all children. For some — including children with developmental delay — noticing body signals, adjusting to new routines or managing sensory changes can take a little longer.

Toileting involves many sensory experiences for children, including:

• the feel of sitting on the toilet seat
• the sound of flushing
• changes in body position
• noticing the difference between being wet and dry

Xavier Occupational Therapist Ushes, who supports children and families, reminds us that toilet training is about children feeling safe and understood.

“Taking things slowly and talking about what children are feeling — the seat, the sounds, the sensations in their body — can help children tune into their body signals and feel safer with this new routine,” Ushes says.

Simple, reassuring language such as “your body is telling us it needs to do a wee” or “the seat might feel cool at first, then your body warms it up” can support confidence and understanding.

Summer-friendly OT tips

If you are in the process of toilet training, or thinking about starting, here are some tips that may help from our occupational therapy team.  

Plan ahead
Choose a relaxed start day when you can be home more, this will help you and your child to feel more at ease. Then, keep routines simple and easy to follow. Using a visual chart in the bathroom and talking about “toilet time” in a calm, matter-of-fact way can support your child's understanding of what will happen.

Get ready and celebrate together
Involving your child in choosing training pants, celebration stickers or reward charts can help them feel empowered. Once toilet training is underway, celebrating each effort and attempt, not just outcomes, will support their confidence and sense of achievement.

Consider training pants
Training pants can be a helpful “in-between” step. They reduce mess and stress for parents and carers while still allowing children to notice a gentle wet sensation, which supports body awareness and learning.

Keep it playful and low-pressure
Short, frequent sits, favourite books or songs, bubbles, and lots of encouragement can help toileting feel safe and positive. Progress will look different for every child and that’s okay.

A summer that feels good for everyone

The goal over summer isn’t perfect toileting. It’s about building confidence, comfort and body awareness, at a pace that suits your child and your family.

Our allied health team supports children and families with flexible, child-centred support — whatever your summer looks like — we're here to help. 

For further support or information, please email ahc@xavier.org.au