Bathroom routines are one of the first big steps toward independence at school. When children know exactly what to do, from asking to go to washing their hands, they feel more confident and the classroom runs more smoothly.

Teach it like any other routine

Break the routine into small steps, model each one and practice often. Many children benefit from seeing the steps in pictures, especially early in the year.

A simple bathroom routine

  1. Ask to use the bathroom, or use the class signal.
  2. Use the toilet.
  3. Wipe and flush.
  4. Pull up and fix clothes.
  5. Wash hands.
  6. Throw away the paper towel.
  7. Return to the group.

Handwashing, step by step

The CDC recommends five steps: wet your hands with clean running water, lather with soap, scrub for at least 20 seconds, rinse, and dry with a clean towel or air dry.

  • Humming “Happy Birthday” twice takes about 20 seconds.
  • Remind children to scrub the backs of their hands, between their fingers and under their nails.

Use visual supports

  • Post a picture sequence of the steps at children’s eye level near the toilet and sink.
  • Use the same pictures when you teach the routine in class.
  • Coloring pages and small practice cards let children review the steps.

Keep it comfortable

  • Use calm, matter-of-fact language and consistent words.
  • Plan for accidents with a private, kind response and spare clothes.
  • Partner with families so the words and steps match at home.

Printable bathroom supports

For printable supports, our Bathroom Activities: Bathroom Visuals, Hygiene Coloring Pages and Toilet Routine set is available on Teachers Pay Teachers.