How to Get Potty Training Support for Your TK Student in California

If your toddler is starting Transitional Kindergarten (TK) in California, you may be worried about potty training and what kind of support is available. While state law doesn't require a child to be potty-trained for school, preparing your toddler for toileting independence is key to a smooth transition.

Partnering with Your School for Potty Training

Communication with your child's TK school is your most powerful tool. Here's what you can do:

• Understand School Policy: Ask the school about their potty training policy and how they handle accidents. While they cannot deny enrollment, schools often have protocols for communicating with parents and managing accidents.

• Provide a "Go-Bag": Send your child to school with a small backpack containing a full change of clothes, extra underwear, wipes, and a plastic bag for soiled items.

• Encourage Self-Management: Inquire about classroom routines. Teachers often schedule frequent bathroom breaks and use visual charts to help toddlers remember when to go. Ask about these practices so you can reinforce them at home.

Finding Professional Support for Potty Training

If you are facing significant potty training difficulties, professional help is available. This kind of support helps both the parent and the toddler, addressing potential behavioral or developmental issues.

• Developmental Delays: If your toddler's struggle with potty training is part of a broader developmental concern, resources can help. California's Early Start program is a key resource for toddlers with developmental delays and can provide support for mastering skills like toileting.

  
  

• Behavioral Challenges: For toddlers who resist potty training due to anxiety or control issues, a behavior specialist can offer strategies to make the process easier.

Sources:

• California Department of Education

• LAist

• Lammersville Unified School District