Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Health and Physical Development (HPD)

Subdomain: Self-Care

Goal: Children develop independence in caring for themselves and their environment.

Skill Progression: Toileting

Age: 15-18 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 15-18 Months.

Observe the child during daily routines and on the potty chair. Interview the adult if needed.

The child likes to remove clothing and sit on the potty chair, but does not eliminate, except by chance.

The child sits unattended on the potty chair and looks at a book.

Most parents have their child in the bathroom with them, at least occasionally. Reassure parents that this practice is helpful for toileting. Observation of others in the bathroom shows the child a model for what he should do, including all of the actions related to toileting. Have the potty chair in an easily accessible location, so the child can use it whenever he wants. Some authorities recommend putting dirty diapers into the potty chair and showing the child, so the child starts to understand what is supposed to go in there. A doll that wets can be a good model and motivator.