With the start of a new school year this month, many incoming first graders are looking forward to their next chapter. But for some, a major hurdle awaits: squat toilets.

Some students avoid using school restrooms altogether due to the difficulty of using these traditional toilets, prompting experts to call for early preparation.

According to a 2023 survey by the education ministry, about 30% of toilets in public elementary and junior high schools nationwide are still squat-style. “Most homes and commercial facilities use Western-style toilets. Given that, the proportion of squat toilets in schools is quite high,” said Atsushi Kato, head of the Tokyo-based nonprofit organization Japan Toilet Labo.

“This gap between home and school facilities can be a source of stress for children,” Kato said.

A separate 2022 survey by the institute, which polled 1,000 elementary school students, found that only 22.4% could use squat toilets without any issues, while 26.7% — or roughly 1 in 4 — said they were unable to use them at all.

Another 50.9% said they could use them but found them uncomfortable, highlighting a widespread reluctance toward using squat toilets.

When asked why they avoided using the restroom at school, many cited embarrassment over being seen by friends, but some specifically mentioned the difficulty of using squat toilets.

“If children hold it in, they may start feeling unwell or struggle to concentrate in class,” Kato said. He also pointed out that in emergencies such as natural disasters or outdoor activities like camping, Western-style toilets may not be available.

“Making sure kids are comfortable using both squat and Western-style toilets before school starts will give them peace of mind,” he said.

As squat toilets become less common in commercial spaces, Kato suggested that guardians help children practice squatting at home. “Some kids have trouble keeping their heels on the ground. It’s important to find a balanced squatting posture,” he said.

Translated by The Japan Times