Potty Training at Daycare: How to Work With Teachers

Updated November 2026.

The best way to potty train a child in daycare is to wait for readiness signs, tell the teachers before you start, and use the same words and routine at home and in class. Most children are ready somewhere between about 2 and 3 years old. Many do well at daycare, because they see friends using the toilet and teachers keep a steady schedule.

Here is how to make it work as a team.

Signs your child may be ready

• Stays dry for 2 hours or more, or wakes up dry from naps
• Tells you, or shows you, when they are wet or pooping
• Hides to poop or wants a diaper change right away
• Shows interest in the toilet or in wearing underwear
• Can follow simple directions
• Can pull pants up and down with a little help

You do not need every sign. A few, together with interest, is often enough to try.

Talk with teachers before you start

Teachers see many children potty train every year. Before you begin, ask:

• What readiness signs do you see at school?
• How often do you take children to the bathroom?
• Do you use pull-ups, training pants or underwear?
• What words do you use for pee, poop and the potty?
• How do you handle accidents?
• How will you tell me how the day went?

Agree on a plan and a start date. A long weekend or a few days off work can help you start strong at home first.

Keep home and daycare consistent

• Same words: use the terms your child hears in class.
• Same routine: potty breaks on waking, before and after meals, before naps and before leaving.
• Same approach to praise: calm, specific praise works well. Big rewards can backfire if they stop.
• Same gear: if teachers use underwear during the day, try to match at home.

Pull-ups or underwear?

Many daycares prefer underwear once a child is truly training, because children feel wet and learn faster. Pull-ups are often used for naps and long car rides. Ask the teachers what they prefer, and choose pants with an elastic waist that your child can pull down alone. Skip belts, overalls and onesies for now.

What to pack

• 3 or 4 full changes of clothes, including socks
• Several pairs of underwear
• Pull-ups for nap time, if used
• A wet bag for soiled clothes
• An extra pair of shoes if possible

Label everything. Check the cubby every day and restock.

Handling accidents and setbacks

Accidents are part of learning. Stay calm and matter-of-fact: "Pee goes in the potty. Let's get dry clothes." Avoid punishment or shame.

Setbacks are common after big changes such as starting daycare, a new sibling, a new classroom, a move or an illness. If your child was trained and starts having many accidents, ease back to more frequent reminders and extra praise for trying. If accidents continue for weeks, or your child has pain, strong urges or constipation, talk with your pediatrician.

Poop is often the last step

Many children pee in the potty well before they are comfortable pooping there. Some ask for a diaper or hold it in. Keep things relaxed, offer fiber and water, and do not force it. Constipation can make training much harder, so mention it to your doctor if it lasts.

Pack plenty of backup outfits while your child learns. See how many extra clothes to send to daycare.

Frequently asked questions

What age do kids potty train at daycare?

Most children train somewhere between about 2 and 3 years old, but every child is different.

Does my child need to be potty trained for preschool?

Some preschool programs require it and some do not. Ask the program directly.

Will daycare potty train my child?

Teachers help a lot, but training works best when parents lead at home and the center follows the same plan.

Why is my child having accidents after starting daycare?

A new place and new routine can cause a short setback. Most children get back on track within a few weeks with patience and reminders.

Early preschool at Children's Land

At Children's Land, our early preschool program for 2 to 3-year-olds is a time of big growth, including new independence skills. Talk with your child's teachers about a potty plan that fits your family. Find a location near you.

Related reading: Daycare for 1-Year-Olds: What a Good Toddler Room Looks Like.