Show children on the first day of class where the bathroom facilities are located. Have each child practice walking from the classroom to the bathroom to learn how to get there. Talk openly, while all children are seated in a circle and focusing attention on you, about bathroom rules. Explain to children that permission must be received before using the bathroom. Ask the children if they have any questions.
Create a bathroom rules chart or board to place in the front of the preschool classroom. Make the chart a simple outline of steps regarding bathroom usage in the classroom. Simple words and pictures can be added to the chart to further help preschool children understand the process. Write, in large letters, "Bathroom Rules" at the top of the poster. On the next line place the number 1 and beside it write "Raise your hand" with a picture of a child raising her hand while seated.
Write the second rule by stating "Wait your turn." Use a picture of a clock to illustrate the rule.
Add a third rule to your chart telling students to retrieve an egg timer from the teacher before going in to the bathroom. The teacher turns on the timer for a maximum time limit of five minutes. The student takes the timer in to the bathroom and is instructed to return the egg timer to the teacher once the timer goes off. To note this rule on the chart, write "Get timer" and show a picture of a timer to help students remember the rule.
Write a fourth line on the poster reminding children to wash hands thoroughly before leaving the bathroom. The fourth rule simply states "Wash hands" and has a picture of soap and bubbles beside the words. Keep a full container of liquid hand soap in the bathroom along with disposable paper towels to help prevent the spreading of germs. Teachers should visually inspect hands and ask children if hands were washed after using the bathroom. Tell students to return and wash hands in the event the step was skipped or a student forgot.