Evaluation of a new method of toilet training (TT), meaning TT in group in daycare centers, guided by a TT expert. Children are included based on signs of readiness for TT.
A cluster randomized controlled trial (CRCT) was established in daycare centers. Clusters of participants (per daycare center) were randomly allocated to an Intervention group or a Control group. Evolution of the TT process was monitored in the daycare center until the child was considered to be fully toilet trained (or 'clean') during the day (this means wearing undergarments, conscious of the need to void and initiating toilet behavior without reminder of the parents with a maximum of one leakage a day \[9\]). Daycare workers evaluated the TT process of all participating children on a weekly basis. Parents were asked to fill in an online questionnaire when their child was completely toilet trained.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
55
During the training, children wore underpants, were informed about potty training, were encouraged to drink often and were asked regularly if they felt the need to void. Tutors looked for elimination signals in the child and quickly responded by putting the child on the potty when he/she expressed the need to void or to defecate. Children were positively rewarded. Parents received a leaflet containing practical tips concerning TT and their child's successes of the past two days. They were asked to continue TT at home during the following weekend and longer if necessary. Daycare workers were asked to pay more attention on the TT during the following days and weeks to ensure the effect of the intervention.
Parents were encouraged to start TT their child, because they were considered as being ready to initiate TT. Children did not receive any intervention, but parents were asked to start TT in their own manner. Parents were allowed to search for information on methods of TT with their relatives, internet, books,...
University Hospital Antwerp
Antwerp, Belgium
Duration of toilet training
Number of weeks needed for the child to become fully toilet trained
Time frame: 6 weeks
Effectiveness of toilet training
Number of children that acquire cleanliness at 6 weeks time
Time frame: 6 weeks
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