Step Up Stools

When I typed the word ‘stools’, it was meant to refer to a piece of furniture and not poo. It does however go hand in hand with toilet training.

I would recommend introducing this handy piece of furniture soon after the child has begun walking steadily. As the child becomes more mobile, he/she is likely to experiment with different ways of becoming more independent. I would also recommend introducing the step up stool before the potty. This will enable the child to become familiar with one item at a time.

Initially have the stool placed near where you would normally change the child (e.g. the child’s bathroom or bedroom). Show him/her how he/she can sit on it to take off his own slippers and to undress him/herself. He/she may need help but think of the boost in confidence and the sense of accomplishment for the child to know that he/she is capable of taking his/her pants off before a nappy change. Learning to take his/her pants off by him/herself is one preparatory step towards learning to use the toilet independently.

Later, the stool can be used by the child to reach the taps to wash hands, brush teeth and brush hair.

From my own work experience, I have seen quite a few different types of stools. There’s the Baby Bjorn plastic step stool. This is a sturdy little stool that is popular among parents who would like to buy everything from this trusted Swedish label. Baby Bjorn makes potties and toilet trainer seats as well. (Yes, Baby Bjorn is the maker of that very famous and comfortable baby carrier.) For parents who are budget conscious, Ikea also sells non-slip plastic stools. I remember that they used to be made somewhere in Europe but I am not sure if they are still made there, since they have recently changed the colours. When I visited Ikea recently, I saw a taller plastic stool. I guess that they have two models to choose from now. There is also the option of buying a wooden one from a children’s boutique or from craft markets. The ones that I have seen are either plain (with a clear finish) to show off the natural wood, or painted with animals or fairies. I think these are more pricey and do not come with non-slip feet or non slip surface.

It is a good idea to buy multiple stools, one for the child’s bathroom, one for the child’s bedroom and one for the other bathroom or powder room near the living room or the child’s play area. Some parents purchase a wooden one for the child’s bedroom and use the plastic ones in the bathrooms.