"Others, as a result of careful study, have come to the conclusion that the first two years are the most important in the whole span of human life"

DR. MARIA MONTESSORI

In our Montessori toddler environment (ages 18 months -2 1/2 years of age) you won't find any diapers. Yes, that's correct, and no, we don't expect them to know how to use the toilet. The first step in learning how to use the toilet independently is acknowledging that your pants are wet. This is accomplished much easier and faster if there's no diaper absorbing all the liquid. Children come to school wearing training underwear with plastic underwear covers over them.  The training underwear is thicker and allows for more absorption. The plastic underwear covers minimize the liquid spill. When the plastic underwear is no longer needed, they are removed. For the youngest child, going through the routine of taking off clothing, sitting on the toilet, washing hands, and getting dressed again can be enjoyable work. Young children love repetition. This is why they continually take off shoes only to put them back on again. It's how our brains are wired to absorb information. We need repetition for mastery.

In the toddler environment, the youngest child goes through this toileting routine at least every hour. This is especially true for those first joining us. Giving them opportunities to be successful only aids in the confidence and association of their body sensations and the toilet. Success happens in three steps. Initially, the child recognizes after he has urinated that his pants are wet. After some time, the child will recognize the signs of needing to use the toilet but might only be able to acknowledge this as it's happening. In the final step, the child can recognize these signs before it happens. The consistency also aids in the success of the young child. At no time do the children leave their underwear and put on a diaper. This can be confusing to the child. In the child's mind, the message is that it's okay to urinate while not using the toilet and the next it's not okay. Being consistent in routine and expectations allows even the youngest child to master this. When most children first join us, they will have used the toilet successfully within the first few weeks. This doesn't mean they instantly always use the toilet successfully, but given so many opportunities, they will continue to be successful. Being consistent at school and home will only aid them in achieving this goal.