Montessori potty training

The Montessori approach to potty training, often called toilet learning - is all about respecting a child’s natural development and fostering independence from the very beginning. Instead of relying on rewards, pressure, or rigid schedules, it encourages a gradual, child-led process that begins with awareness and observation.

Here are the key principles:

  • Start early with awareness: Even from infancy, caregivers talk about bodily functions during diaper changes to normalize the process and build vocabulary.

  • Follow the child’s lead: Rather than waiting for a specific age, parents observe signs of readiness—like staying dry longer, showing interest in the bathroom, or communicating about wet diapers.

  • Create a prepared environment: A child-sized potty or toilet seat, easy-to-remove clothing, and a step stool for handwashing all support independence.

  • Normalize the process: There’s no shame or pressure. Children are encouraged to explore and imitate, and accidents are treated as part of learning.

  • Build routines gently: While there’s no strict schedule, consistency helps. Children are invited to use the potty at natural transition times - like after meals or before naps.

A Montessori-inspired potty learning setup

1. Set up a child-friendly bathroom space

  • Place a small potty chair in the bathroom or wherever your child spends time.

  • Add a step stool so they can reach the sink easily.

  • Keep extra clothes and wipes in an accessible basket—this empowers your child to participate in cleanup if needed.

  • Use loose, easy-on/off clothing—elastic waistbands are your best friend here.

2. Incorporate potty time into daily rhythms

  • Gently invite your child to sit on the potty:

    • After waking up

    • After meals

    • Before naps and bedtime

  • Keep it low-pressure—just sitting and chatting or reading a book is perfectly fine.

  • Consistency builds familiarity without feeling forced.

3. Model and normalize

  • Let your child see caregivers or older siblings using the toilet—this helps demystify the process.

  • Talk about what’s happening: “Your body made pee. We put it in the potty.”

4. Support independence and confidence

  • Allow your child to flush the toilet or pour contents from a potty chair.

  • Encourage handwashing as a natural next step.

  • Celebrate effort, not just success: “You noticed your body needed to go. That’s really helpful!”

5. Be prepared for accidents

  • They’re totally normal—respond with calm, “Oops, we’ll clean it up together,” and move on.

  • Avoid punishments or bribes. Respect for the child’s journey is key.