How to Register for Kindergarten when your child still wears diapers

Many times parents believe that they cannot enroll their child in kindergarten because their child is still in diapers. Not so! Read below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Go to your local public school where your child will be attending kindergarten. Usually enrollment is done in the main school office.

2. Take with you items needed for enrollment. Your child's birth certificate, immunization and TB test record, proof or residence and proof of your child's current physical examination.

3. When enrolling you need to inform the school secretary that your son or daughter is not toilet trained and may need assistance in class. This should not be a problem. By law they cannot keep your child from attending school.
   Do not be intimidated by office staff.
   Usually someone will call you to discuss the toileting issue. If your child has not become potty trained by age five then your child may have other concerns and the school will talk to you about these concerns. If you have not done so you should discuss your child's lack of progress i toileting with the pediatrician.
   Not being toilet trained by age five can be considered a developmental delay. School professionals may want to find out whether your child has other problems such as delayed speech, delayed fine or gross motor development, etc.

4. If toileting is the only issue your child has you can ask the school nurse to develop a simple plan (often called an Individualized Healthcare Plan) that will assist the teacher and parent in working together. Of course the child's doctor may also want to be involved in the planning, it is unusual for a child to not be toilet trained by age five and medical issues may exist and should be investigated, if the physician feels it is warranted.
   If your child is not potty trained and has other delays the school should begin to officially evaluate or assess your child. If it seems like the school is delaying action (many schools will opt to wait until the first grade to complete the assessment) you need to be assertive and demand action while your child is in kindergarten. DO NOT let the school delay assessment. Early intervention is always best. We know schools are having financial issues but don't let this excuse get in the way of your child's progress. Keep on top of this and don't let the school wait the entire year before looking into your child's developmental delays.

5. Provide your child's classroom with diapering supplies (pull-ups or diapers, wet-wipes, gloves). If you can assist the school go to the classroom to help out. The teacher may welcome your help.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't assume that the school will act in the best interest of your child. They want to do so, but often are short staffed and have limited resources. A parent who is proactive and perseveres will have a child who is more successful in school.
• Don't punish your child for not being toilet trained. Having a positive non-judgmental attitude will also help your child be successful in toilet training.
• It is not always easy and you may be out of your comfort level when dealing with the school. Be assertive but calm and persistent. You are your child's advocate.