The Montessori approach to potty training, often called toilet learning - is all about respecting a child’s natural development and fostering independence from the very beginning. Instead of relying on rewards, pressure, or rigid schedules, it encourages a gradual, child-led process that begins with awareness and observation.
Here are the key principles:
Start early with awareness: Even from infancy, caregivers talk about bodily functions during diaper changes to normalize the process and build vocabulary.
Follow the child’s lead: Rather than waiting for a specific age, parents observe signs of readiness—like staying dry longer, showing interest in the bathroom, or communicating about wet diapers.
Create a prepared environment: A child-sized potty or toilet seat, easy-to-remove clothing, and a step stool for handwashing all support independence.
Normalize the process: There’s no shame or pressure. Children are encouraged to explore and imitate, and accidents are treated as part of learning.
Build routines gently: While there’s no strict schedule, consistency helps. Children are invited to use the potty at natural transition times - like after meals or before naps.
Place a small potty chair in the bathroom or wherever your child spends time.
Add a step stool so they can reach the sink easily.
Keep extra clothes and wipes in an accessible basket—this empowers your child to participate in cleanup if needed.
Use loose, easy-on/off clothing—elastic waistbands are your best friend here.
Gently invite your child to sit on the potty:
After waking up
After meals
Before naps and bedtime
Keep it low-pressure—just sitting and chatting or reading a book is perfectly fine.
Consistency builds familiarity without feeling forced.
Let your child see caregivers or older siblings using the toilet—this helps demystify the process.
Talk about what’s happening: “Your body made pee. We put it in the potty.”
Allow your child to flush the toilet or pour contents from a potty chair.
Encourage handwashing as a natural next step.
Celebrate effort, not just success: “You noticed your body needed to go. That’s really helpful!”
They’re totally normal—respond with calm, “Oops, we’ll clean it up together,” and move on.
Avoid punishments or bribes. Respect for the child’s journey is key.