Toileting Readiness and Success: A Guide for Parents
When Toileting Feels Like a Mountain
Toileting. It's one of those milestones that feels like it should be simple, but for so many families, it becomes one of the most stressful parts of parenting.
We've sat with parents who've told us they've been trying to toilet train for two years. Others have shared that their child is terrified of the bathroom. Some have said they don't even know where to start, and the pressure from family members or school isn't helping.
Just last week, a parent came in and said, "Everyone keeps telling me my child should be potty trained by now. But they're not ready, and I don't know what I'm doing wrong." She wasn't doing anything wrong. Her child was still building the skills needed. And she needed a roadmap, not guilt.
These conversations are why we created The Toileting Toolkit.
Toileting is so much more complex than people realize. It requires your child to notice body cues, follow multi-step routines, regulate their emotions, communicate their needs, and manage change, all while learning something completely new and sometimes scary. That's a lot. And it deserves more than generic advice or outdated myths about age and readiness.
At elemenoe, we approach toileting the same way we approach everything else: through the lens of speech-language pathology, behaviour analysis, and child development. We blend what we know about communication, learning, and emotional regulation into practical strategies that actually work.
We also know that readiness looks different for every child. Some children show obvious signs of independence and curiosity. Others take longer. Some children with autism or other developmental differences might not show the "typical" signs at all. And that's completely okay. There's no magic age, no one-size-fits-all approach, and no reason to feel rushed or behind.
What matters is understanding where your child is right now, honouring their unique timeline, and having a clear plan to move forward with confidence.
That's what this toolkit does. It walks you through the signs that your child might be ready, then gives you five evidence-based strategies you can use at home, at school, or in the community. Strategies that reduce stress, build success, and help your child develop independence on their own terms.
Whether you're just beginning to think about toileting, you're in the thick of it, or you've been working on this for a while, this toolkit is for you.
Free Guide to Toileting
The Toileting Toolkit: Evidence-Based Strategies for Success
You'll find practical, neuro-affirming strategies grounded in ABA, speech-language pathology, and child development—plus printable visual supports, reinforcement charts, and step-by-step guides you can use right away.
Ready to get support?
If you're navigating toileting challenges and want personalized guidance from our team of speech-language pathologists, behaviour analysts, and psychotherapists, we're here. Contact us at info@elemenoe.ca or schedule a free consultation.
