Why do some Children Potty Train Later than Others?
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Time to read 5 min
Like most areas of child development, some children reach certain milestones earlier or later than the average. Potty training is no different. While some children take to it quickly, others need a bit more time and support to feel ready. In this blog, we’ll look at some of the common reasons why potty training may happen later for some children and why a slower pace is nothing to worry about.
Why do some Children Potty Train Later?
What is the average age for potty training? Physical Reasons for Later Potty Training Emotional Reasons for Later Potty Training Environmental Reasons for Later Potty Training Social Reasons for Later Potty Training Individual Reasons for Later Potty Training Tools to Support your Potty Training Journey:
What is the average age for potty training?
Most children begin potty training sometime between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, with many becoming fully trained during their third year. However, this can vary widely depending on the child. Factors like physical readiness, communication skills, interest in the process, and even cultural or family routines can all influence when a child starts and completes potty training. It’s important to remember that "average" is simply a guide not a deadline and children who take longer are still developing in a healthy and normal way.
Physical Reasons for Later Potty Training
Some kids take a bit longer to potty train, and that’s totally normal, especially when their bodies make it harder for them. One big reason can be constipation. If a child’s poo is hard or painful to pass, they might start holding it in to avoid going, which can make things worse and even more uncomfortable. This can lead to a habit where they avoid the toilet altogether because they’re scared it will hurt. Some children also just don’t feel the urge to go in the same way others do, or they might have trouble knowing when they need to use the toilet. These physical issues can slow things down, but with a little time, understanding, and support, most kids get there when they’re ready.
Emotional Reasons for Later Potty Training
Some children may potty train later than others because of emotional reasons, and that’s just as important as the physical side. Big changes like a new sibling, starting daycare, or moving house can make a child feel unsettled, and potty training might take a back seat. Some kids also like to feel in control, and using the toilet is one way they can say, “I’m in charge!”—even if it means refusing to go. Others might feel anxious or pressured if grown-ups expect them to be ready before they actually are. Every child is different, and feeling safe, relaxed, and confident makes a big difference. With patience, encouragement, and a no-pressure approach, most kids will start using the toilet when they feel emotionally ready.
Environmental Reasons for Later Potty Training
The environment a child is in can really influence when and how easily they potty train. A busy family routine, lots of changes, or not having a child-friendly toilet setup can all slow things down. One big factor is the kind of nappies a child wears. Disposables are undoubtedly an amazing labour-saving device, but when it comes to potty training, they can actually make the process harder and take longer. They’re designed to pull moisture away from a child’s skin to keep them dry and comfortable – basically acting like a perfect little portable toilet. But for potty training to work, children need to feel when they’re wet so they can start making the connection between doing a wee and what that feels like. Reusable nappies, on the other hand, give children more of that wet sensation and often give parents a bit more motivation to start toilet training earlier. Creating a calm, consistent environment with the right tools can make a big difference in helping a child feel ready and confident to take the next step.
Social Reasons for Later Potty Training
The environment a child is in can really influence when and how easily they potty train. A busy family routine, lots of changes, or not having a child-friendly toilet setup can all slow things down. One big factor is the kind of nappies a child wears. Disposables are undoubtedly an amazing labour-saving device, but when it comes to potty training, they can actually make the process harder and take longer. They’re designed to pull moisture away from a child’s skin to keep them dry and comfortable – basically acting like a perfect little portable toilet. But for potty training to work, children need to feel when they’re wet so they can start making the connection between doing a wee and what that feels like. Reusable nappies, on the other hand, give children more of that wet sensation and often give parents a bit more motivation to start toilet training earlier (ERIC). Creating a calm, consistent environment with the right tools can make a big difference in helping a child feel ready and confident to take the next step.
Individual Reasons for Later Potty Training
Every child is unique, and sometimes the reasons for potty training later are simply down to individual development. To be successful with using the toilet, a child needs to have certain skills in place—like being able to communicate when they need to go. If they aren’t quite there with their words yet, it can be tricky for them to let adults know in time. But that doesn’t mean potty training is off the table—many children find other ways to communicate, such as using flash cards, baby sign, or Makaton, which can all help them express their needs and take part in the process. They also need the motor skills and coordination to pull their trousers up and down on their own, which can be a big task for little hands. Some children take a bit longer to build these skills, and that’s completely normal. Potty training isn’t just about using the toilet, it’s about being ready in lots of small ways, and every child gets there at their own pace.
Potty training is a big milestone, but it’s important to remember that every child gets there in their own time and in their own way. There are so many factors—physical, emotional, environmental, and individual—that can affect when a child is ready, and none of them mean you’re doing anything wrong. Whether it’s dealing with constipation, big life changes, the type of nappies they wear, or just needing a little more time to build the right skills, it’s all part of the journey. The key is patience, encouragement, and tuning in to your child’s needs. With the right support and a bit of trust in the process, they’ll get there—when they’re truly ready.
