Clothes that do not get in the way

Getting to the bathroom is only half of it. The other half is getting trousers down before the wee arrives. Stiff buttons, belts, dungarees, and tight leggings turn a capable toddler into someone who needs an adult for every visit.

A waist they can push down

For the first weeks, choose a soft waist they can move themselves. Loose trousers, shorts, or a skirt with pants underneath. Skip dungarees on training days, even if they are the favourite outfit. A one-piece means the whole suit comes off for a wee. Save it for evenings when you are happy to help.

Pants at home, full clothes outside

Some families do a few hours at home in just pants, so being wet is obvious. That is a clothes choice, not a test of bravery. If the floor is cold, pants plus very loose shorts works too. Out of the house, the outfit still needs to come down in one move. Pack the day-out bag with that kind of waist, not a smart pair of jeans for the photos.

Check the pile the night before

Boys who are learning to sit do better without a zip fight. A long T-shirt keeps them covered while pants are at their ankles. If the only clean clothes in the morning are dungarees, that is a laundry problem, not a sign that training has failed. The shop is for a potty, wipes, and books, not a special wardrobe. Ordinary clothes, chosen on purpose, are the trick.