Toilet training is a significant milestone in a child’s development, often involving storybooks, superhero underpants, and rewards for using the potty. However, as the average age for toilet training rises, scientists are seeking to discover the most effective methods for this process. A team at University College London is undertaking the Big Toilet Project, which involves collecting experiences and techniques from people worldwide. The goal is to provide evidence that could help parents toilet train their children earlier, thereby reducing the environmental impact of disposable nappies.

Dr. Mark Miodownik, the project’s leader, acknowledges the sensitivity of the matter, drawing on personal experience to emphasize the potential benefits for both children and parents. He notes that effective and safe toilet training methods could not only improve the lives of children and parents but also decrease family costs and minimize plastic waste.

Dr. Ayşe Allison, a behavioral psychologist at UCL, observes that toilet training occurs at younger ages in countries with lower per capita wealth, suggesting a correlation between economic factors and toilet training practices. Modern nappies, which are highly absorbent, may also play a role by depriving children of the necessary sensory cues to recognize when they need to use the toilet.

The Big Toilet Project aims to identify the factors behind the rising average age for toilet training and explore the considerable variations between different countries and demographic groups. Participants can contribute by completing a five-minute survey and keeping a toilet training diary, with the project steering clear of a “potty shaming” tone to promote more supportive policies and practices.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/mar/04/most-effective-toilet-training-methods-study