Polykids - Toileting

The centre has established and maintains a child orientated approach for initiating toileting practice.

Our philosophy is based on children having the ability to develop emotional and physical readiness for toileting in their own time. Therefore, we promote an environment that encourages self-determination alongside a positive attitude towards toileting.

Licensing criteria:         PF 18, PF 26

National guidelines:      Te Whariki - Well-Being- Goal 1: Children experience an environment where their health is promoted. 

Contribution- Goal 2:    Children experience an environment where they are affirmed as individuals.

• Children must be using the toilet confidently at home. “Confidently” in practice is being able to take clothes down and sit on the toilet, get off the toilet and pull clothes.
• Children must be willing to go to the toilet on their own accord or when asked or prompted by a teacher.
• Teachers will respect a child’s right to refuse (when all teaching strategies have been exhausted or the child becomes agitated or shows signs of distress).
• Polykids expect that children toileting will use the toilet and not a potty. This is because transitioning from potty to toilet introduces another learning step for children. The use of the toilet instead of a potty allows for safe toileting and better health and hygiene practices.
• Underwear is not acceptable for children who are in the beginning stages or new to toileting at Polykids. We request that children wear pull-ups until they are competent/confident toileting within the home environment before underwear is introduced at Polykids
• Nappies do not allow children to access the toilet independently. If nappies are provided for toilet training children, then the child will be changed accordingly, and we will follow our nappy changing procedure.  Children cannot toilet train whilst wearing nappies.
• If the child shows no recognition of having had a toileting accident or has two accidents on the same day, they will be placed back in a nappy/pull-up provided by the parent. Children wearing nappies will be changed according to our nappy change procedure. Children wearing pull-ups can continue toileting.
• Alongside toilet training, we request that until fully toilet trained, parents continue to provide nappies/pull-ups. We believe that supporting children’s positive dispositions towards toileting includes avoiding ongoing accidents during the day.
• Parents are most welcome to discuss toileting with teachers at any time.
• There is a record kept of when children use the toilet and when toileting accidents occur.
• All children will be encouraged to dress themselves, this reinforces self- help skills.
• In the events of a severe toileting accident children will be wiped down or showered and redressed in a calm, considerate and affirming manner. These changes will take place in the nappy change room, where children’s privacy will be respected, and the teacher and child will be visible at all times to other. There is a shower available for use in the nappy changing area.
• While children are in the beginning stages of toilet training. We ask that parents provide a sealed plastic container with appropriate disposable bags so that soiled underwear can be stored hygienically and can be taken home at the end of the day.