Daycare Potty Training Guide 2026: Partnership for Success
Complete guide to potty training at daycare in 2026. Coordinating with caregivers, readiness signs, what to pack, and ensuring consistency between home and daycare.
Potty training is a major milestone that requires consistency between home and daycare. When caregivers and parents work together using the same approach, children succeed more quickly with less frustration.
Table of Contents
Readiness Signs
Is Your Child Ready?
| Sign | What to Look For | |------|------------------| | Physical | Staying dry 2+ hours, regular bowel movements | | Cognitive | Following simple instructions, communicating needs | | Interest | Curiosity about toilet, wanting to be dry | | Motor skills | Can pull pants up/down |
Typical Timeline
Most children show readiness:
- 18-24 months: Some early signs
- 24-30 months: Many ready to start
- 30-36 months: Most actively training
- 36+ months: Still normal for some
Partnering with Daycare
Before Starting
| Step | Why It Matters | |------|----------------| | Discuss timeline | Ensure readiness agreement | | Agree on approach | Consistency is key | | Understand their method | Most use scheduled attempts | | Share your strategy | Home/daycare alignment |
Communication Plan
Coordinate on:
- Training method (child-led, scheduled, etc.)
- Language used ("potty," "bathroom")
- Rewards/celebration approach
- How accidents are handled
- Daily progress updates
What to Pack
Potty Training Supply List
| Item | Quantity | |------|----------| | Extra underwear | 5-8 pairs daily | | Extra pants/shorts | 3-4 pairs | | Extra socks | 2-3 pairs | | Wet bag | 1 for soiled items | | Extra shoes | 1 pair |
Tips for Packing
Make it easy:
- Elastic waist pants only
- Easy on/off shoes
- Labeled clothing
- Clearly organized bag
Common Challenges
Regression at Daycare
| Cause | Solution | |-------|----------| | New environment | Time and patience | | Different routine | Better communication | | Busy caregivers | Discuss ratio for potty help | | Peer influence | Can work both ways |
When Progress Stalls
Consider:
- Is child truly ready?
- Is approach consistent?
- Any stressors at home/daycare?
- Need to pause and restart?
Daycare Potty Training Policies
What to Ask
- When do you start potty training?
- What method do you use?
- How often do children use the potty?
- How do you handle accidents?
- What supplies do I need to provide?
Resources
Last updated: December 2025