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

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

Ask the parent if the child likes to follow them to the bathroom to watch them and participate in bathroom activities. The child may comment on what is happening, “Mommy potty.”

The child shows interest in the bathroom and actions around toileting.

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.