There isn’t one “right” age or a checklist of skills your child must master before beginning toilet training. While many children begin showing readiness between 18–30 months, children with developmental differences often follow their own timeline—and they don’t need to show every traditional sign of readiness before learning can begin.

Helpful signs may include staying dry for periods of time, having somewhat predictable bowel movements, noticing or communicating when they are wet or soiled, showing interest in the bathroom, following simple routines, or being comfortable sitting on the toilet. But if some of these skills aren’t there yet, that doesn’t necessarily mean your child isn’t ready. A thoughtful assessment can help identify your child’s current skills, possible barriers, and the supports that can make learning successful.

Absolutely! Spoken language is not a requirement for toilet training. Children communicate in many different ways, and I take the time to understand how your child already expresses their needs, preferences, and responses.

When the time is right, we can build a clear and accessible way for your child to communicate about the bathroom—whether through gestures, signs, pictures, an AAC device, or another form of communication that works for them. And importantly, independently telling someone they need to use the bathroom is not the first step in learning to toilet. We can build that skill along the way as your child develops greater success and independence with the toileting routine.

That’s okay—we can start there. Bathroom resistance or fear can happen for many reasons, including sensory sensitivities, uncomfortable past experiences, difficulty with transitions, or even physical discomfort. Rather than expecting your child to immediately sit on the toilet, we can work together to understand what may be contributing to their discomfort and begin with a step that feels manageable.

It is important that we make the bathroom a positive space for your child. For some children, the first goal may simply be comfortably approaching the bathroom. From there, we can gradually build comfort and confidence with each part of the routine, celebrating progress along the way. Research and clinical guidance support this kind of gradual, individualized approach for children who avoid or resist the bathroom.