New potty training guide

A new national guide aimed to help parents potty train their children was launched on the 10th December 2025 following a coalition of early years experts and partner organisations and endorsed by both the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). (The coalition was established to review the evidence on best practice for toileting and in response to growing numbers of children starting school in nappies).

Toilet / potty training is a vital milestone in every child’s development – supporting independence, confidence, and school readiness. The new guidance highlights clear messaging – that it is better for children’s bladder and bowel health to stop using nappies between 18 and 30 months.

The new guide covers when to start potty training, and how to get all children enthusiastic about using the potty and toilet, with lots of practical advice and ideas: The Potty Training Guide – Starting Reception