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One in Four Children in England Start School Without Being Toilet Trained, Say Teachers. AI-Generated.
A growing number of children in England are starting primary school without being fully toilet trained, according to teachers and early years experts. Recent reports indicate that approximately one in four children enters school without mastering basic toileting skills, raising concerns among educators about readiness for formal education and the support systems available for families. Teachers say this trend affects not only classroom management but also children’s social development and self-confidence, sparking a wider discussion about parenting, early education, and societal pressures on families. What the Teachers Are Reporting Educators across England have reported seeing children struggle with toileting when they begin Reception class, the first year of primary school for children aged four to five. Some common challenges include: Frequent accidents in the classroom Difficulty recognizing bodily signals or asking for help Emotional distress and embarrassment among children While starting school without being toilet trained is not inherently harmful, teachers argue that it can create avoidable stress for children and staff, particularly in large classrooms with limited support staff. One headteacher in London commented: "We want every child to feel confident and secure in school. When children aren’t toilet trained, it can affect their self-esteem and the smooth running of the class." Why This Issue Is Becoming More Common Experts suggest several factors contributing to the increase in children starting school untrained: Delayed Early Childhood Routines: Modern parenting patterns, including later bedtimes and less structured daytime routines, may affect the pace at which children learn toileting habits. Parental Confidence and Guidance: Some parents report feeling unsure about the right time to start toilet training, leading to delays. Early years specialists note that consistent guidance and encouragement at home are crucial. Socioeconomic Pressures: Families under financial strain or parents balancing multiple jobs may struggle to maintain regular toilet training schedules. Cultural Shifts: Changing attitudes toward independence and readiness have influenced how and when parents encourage toilet training. Despite these challenges, educators stress that early support and routine can make a significant difference in preparing children for school. Impacts on the Classroom Starting school without being toilet trained can create practical challenges for teachers: Time spent helping individual children with accidents can distract from teaching. Shared spaces such as toilets may become overwhelmed, particularly in schools with large class sizes. Staff may need extra training and resources to manage hygiene and support children sensitively. For children, the impacts extend beyond physical care: Frequent accidents can affect self-esteem and social confidence. Children may feel embarrassment or anxiety, making it harder to focus on learning. Peer reactions may exacerbate feelings of exclusion or frustration. Teachers emphasize that the issue is not solely a matter of discipline, but one of developmental readiness and support for children and families. What Experts Recommend Early childhood specialists recommend a range of strategies to address the challenge: Early Education Programs: Nursery and preschool programs can support children in developing independence, including toilet training, in a safe and encouraging environment. Parental Guidance and Resources: Clear advice on timing, routines, and positive reinforcement can help parents navigate toilet training more effectively. Government Support: Policies that support working families, including access to affordable childcare, can reduce stress and allow parents to focus on developmental milestones. Teacher Training: Providing educators with strategies to manage accidents sensitively and support children’s self-confidence can improve classroom outcomes. The key message from experts is that toilet training is a developmental milestone, not a moral issue, and with guidance and support, most children can achieve readiness before or shortly after starting school. Societal and Policy Considerations The rise in children starting school without being toilet trained has sparked debate about broader societal trends: Should schools take more responsibility for early childhood readiness, or is it primarily a parental responsibility? How do economic and social pressures affect families’ ability to prepare children for school? What role should government programs play in supporting early development? Some advocates argue that the issue reflects deeper structural challenges, including lack of access to quality childcare, overburdened working parents, and inconsistent early education policies across regions. Voices From Parents Parents have expressed a mix of understanding and concern. Many note that toilet training is not always linear, and children develop at different rates. Some parents report feeling pressure from schools or peers, while others welcome guidance and support. One parent in Manchester said: "Every child develops differently. Some are ready at three, some at four. What matters is support and patience, not judgment." Educators echo this sentiment, emphasizing that sensitivity and practical solutions are more productive than criticism. Looking Ahead While one in four children starting school without being toilet trained may seem high, experts point out that early intervention, guidance, and routine can address most cases effectively. Schools, parents, and policymakers need to collaborate to ensure children enter school confident, healthy, and ready to learn. Increasing awareness among parents, providing early support, and equipping teachers with the necessary tools can minimize stress for children and educators alike. Conclusion: A Developmental, Not a Moral, Issue Starting school without being toilet trained is a common developmental challenge, not a failure on the part of children or parents. Teachers, parents, and policymakers all have roles to play in supporting children’s readiness for school. Through early education, guidance, and supportive policies, the majority of children can achieve this milestone and transition smoothly into the classroom environment. Raising awareness and providing resources is key to ensuring that children start school confident, independent, and ready to thrive.
By Muhammad Hassan13 days ago in The Swamp
Trump Ties Greenland Demands to Nobel Peace Prize Snub in Diplomatic Message to Norway. AI-Generated.
In a striking and unprecedented diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump has linked his high-stakes push to assert control over Greenland with his frustration over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize — in a message sent to Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. This bizarre linkage has amplified tensions between Washington and its closest allies, rekindling fears of a transatlantic crisis and trade conflict involving NATO and the European Union.�
By Ayesha Lashari13 days ago in The Swamp
The Role of Agentic AI in Modern Medical Billing and RCM
Medical billing and revenue cycle management (RCM) have become increasingly complex due to evolving payer rules, regulatory pressure, and rising claim volumes. Traditional automation and manual workflows are no longer sufficient to keep pace. This is where agentic AI medical billing is emerging as a transformative force enabling healthcare organizations to automate, optimize, and continuously improve end-to-end RCM processes.
By Lilly Scott13 days ago in Writers
Tears on the Witness Stand: When Prince Harry’s Case Became a Performance
In a courtroom designed for evidence, not emotion, Prince Harry delivered something closer to a monologue than a testimony. What was meant to be a decisive moment in his legal battle against a major British newspaper publisher instead unfolded as a study in contradiction, frustration, and theatrical vulnerability—leaving legal observers questioning whether the Duke of Sussex strengthened his case or quietly undermined it. At the heart of the lawsuit lies a serious allegation: that elements of the British press engaged in illegal information-gathering practices, including phone hacking, deception, and the use of private investigators. Harry has positioned himself as both plaintiff and symbol, a man standing not just for personal justice but for the principle that public figures deserve privacy. Yet under cross-examination, the clarity of that mission blurred. Throughout the day, the Duke presented himself as a lifelong victim of relentless media intrusion, someone whose private life had been treated as open territory for commercial exploitation. “I fundamentally reject the idea that my life is public property,” he insisted, framing his case as a moral stand against an industry he believes thrives on intrusion disguised as public interest. But the defense methodically chipped away at this narrative. The most damaging moment came with the discussion of a pseudonymous Facebook account—“Mr. Mischief”—used in 2016 to contact a journalist. Initially, Harry denied any involvement. Then he suggested the account might have been created by someone else. Finally, he conceded that he may have used the alias himself. The shifting explanations were stark, and in a courtroom, inconsistency is costly. What this moment revealed was not merely a lapse in memory, but a deeper tension in Harry’s argument. He portrays himself as a passive target of media manipulation, yet evidence suggested a willingness—at least at times—to engage with the press on his own terms. The image of a prince entirely besieged by journalists gave way to something more complicated: a man simultaneously resentful of media attention and capable of seeking it out. As the questioning continued, Harry’s demeanor fluctuated dramatically. At moments, he was defiant, even argumentative, challenging assumptions and lecturing the court on the failures of British journalism. At others, he appeared fragile, visibly strained by the weight of past experiences. He spoke at length, and with striking emotion, about former relationships, particularly the distress faced by an ex-girlfriend under intense media scrutiny. His recollections were vivid, detailed, and deeply personal. By contrast, references to his wife were brief and procedural—until the very end. In what became the defining moment of the day, Harry’s composure finally broke. Speaking of the impact of press coverage on his wife, his voice faltered. He paused, reached for water, and struggled to continue. Tears followed. It was raw, unrestrained, and undeniably human. Yet in the context of a legal proceeding, the moment raised uncomfortable questions. Why had the most detailed emotional testimony been reserved for past relationships, while his wife’s suffering emerged only as a climactic declaration? Why did this emotional crescendo arrive after hours of damaging contradictions? To legal analysts, the breakdown risked appearing less like spontaneous grief and more like a strategic pivot—from facts to feeling. The defense seized on this perception. They argued that Harry has built a lucrative second career on publicly narrating his pain through memoirs, documentaries, and interviews. In their framing, this lawsuit is not a rejection of exposure, but another iteration of it. The courtroom, they suggested, had become yet another stage. This paradox sits at the core of Harry’s struggle. He condemns the commercialization of his private life while simultaneously profiting from its disclosure. He seeks privacy through the most public mechanisms available. His tears, however genuine, exist in the same economy of attention as the stories he denounces. None of this negates the possibility that press misconduct occurred. The case will ultimately turn on evidence, statutes, and legal precedent—not emotion. But in the court of public opinion, optics matter. And the image Harry left behind was fractured: a man torn between righteous anger and unresolved grief, between moral crusader and media participant, between authority and vulnerability. As he stepped down from the witness stand, visibly drained, the question lingered. Did Prince Harry expose a corrupt system—or did he expose the limits of his own narrative? In seeking to condemn the press for turning his life into spectacle, he may have proven just how difficult it is to escape a role once the spotlight is on. The law will decide the case. But the performance has already left its mark.
By Behind the Curtain13 days ago in Beat
Serving Beyond the Pulpit: The Many Ways People Contribute to Church Life
Service within the church extends far beyond preaching from the pulpit. It encompasses a wide range of actions that support the congregation, nurture community, and foster spiritual growth. Members contribute in meaningful ways through teaching, organizing events, assisting with programs, and providing personal support to others. By engaging in these activities, individuals strengthen the life of the church while cultivating their own sense of purpose and faith. Volunteering in any capacity becomes an expression of dedication, demonstrating that every contribution, no matter its size, matters.
By Mike Signorelli13 days ago in Education
AI in Agriculture Market: Automation in Farming, Resource Efficiency & Growth Outlook. AI-Generated.
Rising need for higher crop productivity, resource efficiency, and sustainable farming is driving growth in the AI in agriculture market. Adoption of precision farming, predictive analytics, and smart sensors improves yield forecasting and input optimization. According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, The global AI in agriculture market size was valued at USD 2.6 Billion in 2025. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 13.0 Billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.49% during 2026-2034.
By James Whitman13 days ago in Futurism
Trump’s Greenland ‘Framework of a Future Deal’: What We Know So Far. AI-Generated.
In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had reached what he described as a “framework of a future deal” concerning the strategic Arctic territory of Greenland. The comments came at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland — a high-profile backdrop for what could become one of the most controversial diplomatic negotiations in recent Western history. �
By Ayesha Lashari13 days ago in The Swamp
Top Business Leaders Issue Expletive-Laced Message on Green Backlash. AI-Generated.
In a move that has captured global attention, a coalition of top business leaders recently issued a sharp and expletive-laden statement responding to what they describe as growing “green backlash” against corporate sustainability initiatives. The statement, which circulated widely on social media and news outlets, reflects increasing tension between business interests and environmental advocacy. Executives from some of the world’s largest corporations—including energy, manufacturing, and technology sectors—warned that the backlash threatens progress on climate goals and risks undermining long-term economic and environmental stability. What the Statement Said While the exact wording contained strong language, the core message was clear: business leaders are frustrated with public criticism that, in their view, unfairly targets companies striving to reduce emissions, invest in renewable energy, and implement sustainable practices. According to excerpts released by major media outlets, the executives argued that: Sustainability efforts are essential for long-term business survival. Criticism from political groups, activists, and some consumers is often misinformed or oversimplified. Corporations cannot be held responsible for systemic environmental challenges alone. The expletive-laced tone surprised observers and sparked debates about corporate communication strategies and the limits of public discourse in environmental debates. Why Business Leaders Are Pushing Back Many companies have invested billions in green technologies, energy-efficient processes, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Yet, they argue that despite these investments, they face increasing public scrutiny and sometimes hostile criticism: Activist campaigns often portray corporations as greenwashing, exaggerating sustainability claims. Politicians in some regions have launched legal or regulatory challenges against certain environmental strategies. Social media amplifies criticism rapidly, sometimes disproportionately. Business leaders warn that this backlash not only demoralizes corporate teams but can also slow down innovation in areas like renewable energy, sustainable packaging, and carbon-neutral logistics. The Green Backlash: What It Is The term “green backlash” refers to growing opposition to environmental initiatives, particularly when such initiatives are perceived as expensive, disruptive, or politically motivated. Analysts suggest the backlash stems from several sources: Economic concerns: Some voters fear green policies raise costs for consumers or hurt industries reliant on traditional energy. Political polarization: Environmental issues have become entangled with partisan debates in multiple countries. Misinformation: Social media often spreads misleading narratives about corporate green practices. Executives argue that a lack of understanding among the public contributes to misdirected criticism. Examples of Corporate Sustainability Initiatives The companies represented in the statement have launched a range of initiatives over the past decade: Transitioning to 100% renewable energy in certain operations. Developing electric vehicle fleets for logistics. Investing in carbon capture technologies. Promoting sustainable supply chains and sourcing practices. While these measures have tangible environmental benefits, some critics argue that companies could do more or that efforts are motivated primarily by public relations rather than genuine ecological concern. Public and Media Reaction The expletive-laden nature of the statement drew immediate attention. Responses have ranged from support to criticism: Supporters argue the message is a wake-up call, highlighting that corporations are actively addressing climate challenges despite unfair scrutiny. Critics say that the tone reflects arrogance and defensiveness, suggesting that executives may be out of touch with public concerns. Media outlets noted the unusual directness and language, emphasizing how rare it is for top executives to express frustration so bluntly. The controversy highlights the fine line companies must walk in communicating sustainability efforts while maintaining credibility and public trust. Implications for Corporate Environmental Policy Analysts suggest this incident could have lasting impacts on corporate environmental policy: Stronger Communication Strategies: Companies may invest more in explaining their initiatives clearly to the public. Policy Advocacy: Corporations could increase lobbying efforts to protect sustainability investments from backlash. Collaboration With Stakeholders: Building alliances with NGOs, governments, and communities may help mitigate criticism. Transparency and Reporting: Enhanced sustainability reporting could counter claims of greenwashing. Overall, the backlash may push companies to balance assertiveness with accountability, ensuring their green efforts are both visible and credible. Broader Context: Climate Action and Corporate Responsibility This statement comes amid a period of heightened focus on climate change and corporate responsibility. Governments around the world are implementing stricter emissions targets, and investors are increasingly prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics. At the same time, some sectors are experiencing pushback from consumers, employees, or regulators who feel that certain sustainability measures are too costly or disruptive. The tension between progressive climate goals and short-term economic or political pressures is likely to persist for years. Lessons From the Backlash Several takeaways emerge from this high-profile corporate statement: Companies must communicate proactively, not just implement policies. Strong language can grab attention, but it may also polarize stakeholders. Engagement with critics, rather than public confrontation, could yield better long-term results. The green backlash reflects a broader societal debate about the pace, cost, and responsibility of environmental action. The incident illustrates how corporate leadership and public opinion intersect in the era of climate change. Conclusion: Navigating the Green Debate The expletive-laden message from top business leaders underscores the frustration felt by corporations navigating environmental challenges in a polarized climate. While the tone may have raised eyebrows, the underlying message is clear: companies are committed to sustainability but are seeking understanding and support from the public. As environmental policies, corporate initiatives, and public expectations continue to evolve, the dialogue between business and society will remain critical. This episode may serve as a reminder that communication strategy is as important as action in achieving meaningful progress on climate change.
By Muhammad Hassan13 days ago in Earth
Pilot Captures Historic Northern Lights Show From 37,000 Feet. AI-Generated.
For a pilot with over two decades of experience, witnessing the northern lights from above is not a new experience—but even the most seasoned aviators can be stunned. Recently, a commercial airline pilot shared breathtaking photos of the aurora borealis from 37,000 feet, calling it “the most incredible display of aurora I've ever seen in my 20 years of flying.” The images, which capture waves of green, purple, and pink light stretching across the horizon, have captivated both aviation enthusiasts and nature lovers worldwide.
By Aarif Lashari13 days ago in The Swamp
Ex-Intelligence Officer Accused of Betraying Austria in Russia Spying Trial. AI-Generated.
Austria, long known for its neutrality and diplomatic balancing act between East and West, has found itself at the center of an explosive espionage scandal. A former Austrian intelligence officer stands accused of betraying his country by spying for Russia, a case that has shaken public trust and reignited debate over foreign influence in Europe.
By Ayesha Lashari13 days ago in The Swamp
