Why are so many four-year-olds not potty-trained before school?

In recent years, a growing concern has emerged regarding the toilet-training skills of four-year-olds before they begin school. According to a survey by the charity Kindred Squared, nearly one-third of children starting school in the West Midlands last year were not fully trained in this essential skill. Primary school staff reported that 42% of these youngsters were deemed not ready for school.

In response to this issue, Kindred Squared has launched a potty-training scheme, providing resources and support for nurseries, schools, and professionals. This initiative will be implemented in Solihull and has already shown promising results in a pilot program in York, where the number of non-toilet-trained children starting reception dropped by nearly half.

However, experts argue that school readiness should encompass more than just toilet-training. Former deputy head teacher and founder of My Mummy Teacher, Ruth Lu-Quee, emphasizes the importance of other developmental milestones, such as a child's ability to communicate, engage in imaginative play, and perform everyday tasks like hanging up their coat. She warns against creating an anxiety-inducing checklist of milestones that children must meet, emphasizing that children develop at their own pace.

One mother, Rachel, shared her experience of struggling with toilet-training her three-year-old son. She found it challenging to navigate the issue as a parent, particularly when her son faced difficulties with withholding stools. Rachel believes that the stigma and shame associated with toilet-training failures have contributed to her son's difficulties, leading to concerns about potential developmental issues such as ADHD.

Health visitors and children's nurses also highlight the potential link between withholding stools and constipation, which can be a source of fear for children when using the toilet. Timely intervention and support are crucial to address these underlying issues rather than attributing them solely to parental shortcomings.

The issue of school readiness extends beyond the ability to use the toilet, and factors such as financial constraints, limited parental time, and access to early years provision play a significant role. Kindred Squared's potty-training scheme aims to address these challenges, with Solihull Council incorporating similar initiatives into its broader "Best Start in Life" program.

However, more support and resources are needed to ensure that all families have the necessary tools and guidance to help their children develop the essential skills required for a smooth transition into school.