ABSTRACT
The developmental milestones of early childhood herald the continuing maturation of the child. Most parents readily recall their child's first steps, first words, and the like. Many of these developmental phenomena are biobehavioral in nature given the dynamic system created by the child's physiological readiness and responsiveness of the environment. The development of bowel and bladder control is no exception. Despite the wishes of parents and caregivers, a basic level of physical readiness must be achieved and instruction provided before toilet training can be fully accomplished (Christophersen & Rapoff, 1983; MacKeith, Meadow, & Turner, 1973).
