When can children typically verbalize their toilet needs?

Children typically start to verbalize their toilet needs around 24 months of age. At this stage, many children have developed the necessary communication skills to express their needs verbally. By this age, they often have a vocabulary that allows them to indicate discomfort or the need to use the bathroom. Additionally, toddlers are beginning to gain better control over their bladder and bowel functions, which accompanies their ability to express these needs.

Prior to 24 months, children are usually still in the early stages of language development and may not yet have the language skills to clearly articulate their needs. As such, it is common for children to communicate their needs through non-verbal cues or gestures rather than specific words. This ability typically solidifies around two years of age, aligning with the common milestones for potty training and independent toileting skills.