How to Potty Train an Autistic Child

Potty training is a significant milestone in a child's development, but for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it can be a more challenging journey. Understanding the unique needs and challenges of children on the spectrum is key to creating a positive and successful potty training experience.

This blog will explore the process of potty training children with autism, address common challenges, and provide effective strategies for success.

Toilet Training Challenges for Children with Autism

While most children with ASD can be potty trained successfully, some may face additional challenges:

Sensory sensitivities: Many children with autism have sensory sensitivities that can make the toilet training process more difficult. For example, a child with autism might not mind the feeling of being wet or soiled, the sound of flushing, the sight of a toilet bowl, or the temperature and texture of the bathroom environment can be distressing.
Communication and understanding: Children with ASD may have difficulty understanding verbal cues or following multi-step instructions. They may also struggle with expressing their need to use the toilet verbally.
Executive functioning: Executive functioning skills, such as planning, organization, and time management, are helpful for successful toilet training. Children with ASD might have challenges in these areas, making it difficult to establish a consistent routine.
Repetitive behaviors: Some children with ASD may exhibit repetitive behaviors, which can make it difficult for them to embrace new routines or adjust to change.
Difficulties with social skills: Children with ASD may struggle to understand social cues or engage in reciprocal interactions, making it harder to learn from others and follow social expectations around toileting.

Developing good hygiene habits is an important step towards greater independence and well-being for children with autism. With the right toilet training support, they can go through these challenges.

Signs Your Child Is Ready for Potty Training

Recognizing when your child is ready to start potty training is important for setting them up for success. Look for the signs listed below, but please know, these are not requirements to begin a toilet training intervention.

Showing interest in the toilet: Your child may start to express curiosity about the toilet, mimicking others using it or showing interest in going to the bathroom.
Staying dry for longer periods: They might start staying dry for longer periods, perhaps even through the night.
Communicating a need for a change: They might be able to tell you verbally or nonverbally that they need a diaper change.
Showing awareness of body signals: They might begin to show awareness of their bodily functions, such as saying "pee-pee" or "poo-poo".

Pay attention to these signs, but remember that every child develops at their own pace. Avoid rushing the process, and focus on celebrating your child's progress.

How to Potty Train a Child with Autism: 7 Main Tips & Strategies

Here are some toilet training tips to help make toilet training a smoother process:

#1. Stay Calm and Positive

Avoid punishment or shaming, as this can lead to anxiety and resistance. Remember that every child is different and will learn at their own pace. Instead of focusing on accidents, celebrate each small step forward, no matter how small! Your positive attitude will make the process less stressful for both of you.

#2. Make Toileting Fun

Let your child get used to sitting on the potty and associating it with a positive experience. You can make this fun by reading a story, singing songs, or playing a game while they are sitting on the potty. This helps them feel comfortable and builds a positive association with using the potty.

#3. Focus on Sitting on the Toilet

Initially, encourage your child to simply sit on the toilet for short periods and reinforce those periods of time with praise, special treats, or a special toy. Then, gradually increase the amount of time on the toilet until a child is comfortable and can sit for at least 5 minutes. Even boys are recommended to start sitting. Be patient and offer lots of praise and encouragement!

#4. Create a Consistent Routine

Establish a consistent toilet routine that includes regular trips to the bathroom, especially after meals and naps. This will help your child learn to recognize their body's signals and understand the timing of when to use the toilet. Be consistent, but be flexible too. If your child seems to need to use the toilet between scheduled times, do not hesitate to let them go.

#5. Use Verbal and Visual Cues

Use clear and consistent verbal cues, such as "time for potty" or "go pee-pee." You can also use visual cues, such as holding up a picture of a toilet. Using both verbal and visual cues helps children with autism understand what is expected and can be especially helpful if they have difficulty with language comprehension.

#6. Address Sensory Sensitivities

Adjust the bathroom environment to make it more sensory-friendly, using calming colors, soft lighting, and pleasant scents. Some children with autism might be sensitive to bright lights or loud noises. Try to create a quiet and calming space that helps them feel comfortable and relaxed.

Potty training can take time and patience. You can achieve positive outcomes faster and easier by implementing these tips and staying consistent.

How ABA Therapy Can Help with Toilet Training

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can be a valuable tool for toilet training children on the spectrum. ABA therapists use evidence-based strategies to:

Step-by-step approach: ABA therapy focuses on breaking down the potty training process into smaller, more manageable steps.
Visual supports: Children with ASD often respond well to visual supports. ABA therapy uses pictures, visual aids, or a picture exchange communication system (PECS) to help your child understand the steps involved in using the toilet.
Building motivation: ABA therapists use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors, such as sitting on the toilet and using the toilet successfully.
Sensory processing: ABA therapists can help children develop strategies for managing sensory sensitivities related to toileting.

At Rise Up For Autism, we can help toilet-train children with ASD, achieving positive and lasting results. Make your child feel confident about their daily routine with our Board-certified behavioral analysts!

Rise Up For Autism: Potty Training Support in Illinois

Children with autism may face different challenges during toilet training. Our Rise Up For Autism team provides professional help, a sensitive environment, and friendly support to help children achieve potty training success.

FAQ

How long does it take to potty train a child on the spectrum?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Toilet training can take longer for children with autism compared to typically developing children. It is important to be patient and to focus on celebrating small successes. Some children may be potty trained within a few months, while others may take several years.

What is the average age for a child with ASD to start toilet training?

The average age for starting toilet training is around 2-3 years old, but this can vary greatly. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Why is it harder for some children to potty train?

Children with ASD may face challenges with toilet training due to sensory sensitivities, difficulties with understanding language and instructions, or challenges with executive functioning skills.

How to potty train my child with autism if I work?

Potty training can be challenging when you work, but it is possible! Get support from family, friends, or an ABA provider. Create a consistent potty training schedule that works for everyone and stick to it as much as possible.

How to Potty Train a Child with Autism: Everything You Need to Know