Why are so many four-year-olds not potty-trained before school?
A significant number of children in the UK are starting school without being fully toilet-trained, prompting new support initiatives. Experts emphasize that school readiness involves a broader range of developmental skills beyond just toilet training.
Why it matters
The trend highlights growing concerns regarding early childhood development and the increasing pressure on primary schools to manage basic life skills.
Image source, My Mummy Teacher Image caption, Ruth Lu-Quee is a mother and early years specialist who says parents should not be blamed for delays in their children's development
For some parents the countdown to starting school means buying uniforms, labelling water bottles and trying to squeeze in one last summer holiday.
For others there is a more basic question to tackle: can their child use the toilet on their own?
According to a survey by the charity Kindred Squared, almost a third of children starting school in the West Midlands last year were not fully toilet-trained and 42% of those arriving in reception were deemed not school-ready by primary school staff.
This week the charity announced its potty-training scheme, which provides resources and support including increased training for nurseries, schools and professionals, will be rolled out in Solihull.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in