Toilet Learning: Teaching Kids How to Wipe

Advice for teaching kids how to wipe from experienced mamas, part of our helpful series of potty training tips.

“Mum, I need you to wipe my bottom!”

Your child has smashed daytime potty training, is doing great with nighttime dryness but is still calling you for help with wiping…and she’s now five. You know you won’t still be wiping her tooshie when she’s 21 but you’d sort of like to get it done sooner rather then later!

To get you started, we asked our panel of experienced mamas…

What are your top tips for teaching kids how to wipe?

• Use very clear, very simple language.  Encourage them to try wiping first, followed by you checking with an extra wipe as necessary, to help them transition to being completely independent in their toileting.  CO

• Front to back ALWAYS otherwise they will get sore wee wees. SP

• I have found flushable wet wipes really helpful when kids are learning. I wait until they are old enough to want to do it themselves and teach good hand washing after! SH

• We used the little saying “front to back, just like that” with the girls to remind them. I’ve pretty much expected them to have a go right from the beginning and I only step in afterwards if needed. Wet wipes or a warm damp facewasher/cloth wipe can be helpful as they are much easier to clean with than dry toilet paper. KF

So front to back it is, let them try first and flushable wet wipes can be a lifesaver while they are learning! We’ve got one more post in this potty training tips series. We’ve asked our mamas – what is your #1 tip for potty training success?

Or, you can head back to the start to see the full series of tips posts, starting with – how do I know my child is ready for potty training?

Great big thanks for sharing so generously go to Shae (Mum to 3 girls), Kate (Mum to 4 – two of each), Sarah (Mum to 2 boys and 1 girl) and Cath (Mum to 1+1).