NDNA was interested to read recent reports that an increasing number of teachers are reporting children are starting school not fully toilet trained.
Many reports focused on how changing soiled children is not in the job description of either a teacher or a teaching assistant. As a result of queries, the Association of Teachers and Lecturers has published guidance for members.
However, rather than asking if today's parents are 'too busy' to properly toilet train their child, if modern nappies make children 'too comfortable' or if teachers should change soiled children, we should question whether children are ready to start school.
Over recent years there has been a real shift to children starting school earlier and earlier. Summer-born children may start school in September, when only a few weeks before they were aged three. In addition, the recent proposal made in the Rose review that all children start school the September following their fourth birthday was accepted by Government.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
