The Recent Changes in Potty Learning Guidance

Over recent years, toilet learning has often been framed as something to delay until toddlers show a narrow set of “readiness signs.”

New UK guidance, developed by The Institute of Health Visiting in collaboration with ERIC, The Children’s Bladder and Bowel Charity, represents a significant shift away from delay-based, child-led waiting, towards a skills-based, health-focused approach that supports earlier learning in a gentle, responsive way.

A Clear Health Message: Don’t Delay Too Long

The updated guidance is explicit that prolonged nappy use can negatively affect bladder and bowel health. Research shows it is healthier for children to stop using nappies between 18 and 30 months, rather than waiting until 3–4 years or beyond. Delaying toilet learning increases the risk of constipation, withholding, and bladder dysfunction later on.

Toilet Learning Starts Earlier Than Many Parents Expect

The guidance now normalises starting toilet learning foundations from around 6–9 months, long before full independence is expected. This does not mean stopping nappies at this age — instead, it focuses on:

• Familiarity with the potty or toilet

• Associating wees and poos with the bathroom

• Sitting practice (even for a few seconds)

• Nappy changes done promptly and, where possible, in the bathroom

These early experiences support body awareness and reduce fear or resistance later on.