Potty training at home is one thing… but potty training with daycare involved? Whole new level. 😅
If your toddler is starting potty training and also spends time at daycare/preschool, it’s totally normal to feel a little nervous about how it’ll all work together. The good news? With a solid plan and good communication, potty training across two environments can absolutely be successful.
Here’s how to make it work—without losing your mind.
💬 Step 1: Communicate Clearly with Your Child’s Teacher
Before you begin, talk to your child’s daycare provider about your potty training goals. Let them know:
- Your child’s current progress
- What language you use at home (“potty” vs. “toilet” etc.)
- Your expectations (Do you want to go cold turkey with diapers? Are you okay with diapers during nap?)
Ask them what they do when kids are potty training. Most daycares have a routine in place—and knowing it helps you stay in sync! Some also have specific licensing that dictates what they can and can not do.
📄 Pro tip: Create a simple potty training info sheet for your daycare provider. Include:
- How often to offer the potty
- What your child’s cues look like
- Rewards or motivators you’re using
🧻 Step 2: Pack the Right Supplies
Make sure your child has everything they need in their cubby to feel confident and comfortable:
✔️ Multiple pairs of undies
✔️ 2–3 extra outfits (including socks!)
✔️ Plastic bags for wet clothes
✔️ Any motivators you use at home (like stickers or a favorite book) and even a little treat for the teachers!
✨ Optional: A small potty seat insert if they’re not a fan of full-size toilets yet (ask the daycare if they allow it). Here’s a link to my favorite by One Proud Toddler
🔄 Step 3: Stay Consistent with Language + Routine
Children thrive on routine—and the more aligned your home and daycare potty approach is, the smoother it’ll go. If daycare takes them potty every 45–60 minutes, do the same at home. If you use a “potty song” at home, share it with their teacher. 🎶
Even small consistencies build confidence!
Many kids will have more success at home first so make the time you spend at home very consistent and committed. This will translate to daycare.
📈 Step 4: Be Patient with Progress (and Setbacks)
It’s totally normal for toddlers to be more successful in one place than the other at first. Some kids will hold it all day at daycare, while others may have more accidents there than at home.
Either way, it’s all part of the learning process. Keep communicating with your provider, keep the tone positive, and stay the course.
📝 BONUS: Use a Potty Communication Log
This doesn’t have to be fancy—a simple daily note or checklist works! Track:
- When they used the potty
- Accidents (if any)
- Bowel movements
- Any changes in behavior
It gives both you and your provider a clear picture of how things are going, and where you might want to tweak your approach.
💛 Final Thought: You’re a Team
You and your daycare provider are on the same team—both cheering for your child’s success. When everyone is aligned, your toddler gets clear, calm, and confident messages from the grown-ups around them. And that is a game-changer.
Need more support?
My digital potty training course is perfect for busy parents juggling work, daycare, and the big transition to underwear. 🎉
It includes: ✔️ Step-by-step training plan
✔️ How to Prepare for Potty Training
✔️ My 3-Step Method including Day Care and Potty Training on the Go
✔️ Bonus tips for poop, naps, and nighttime
🎥 And yes—videos, because who has time to read a manual?
👉 Check out the course here and feel confident every step of the way!
You’ve got this, potty pro. 🙌
Schedule a 1:1 Consultation with a Potty Training Consultant
I offer virtual consultations for parents that want more personalized support. Check out my packages HERE.
