Author: Shahan Naik | April 26th, 2022
Why do parents find it difficult to teach their children with Autism how to toilet train?
Children with autism find it difficult to communicate. Your child may simply not say or will not communicate that they can communicate their needs to go to the toilet. Children with autism find it difficult to transition or switch from one activity to another. Additionally, many children have a sensory processing difficulty, which makes toilet training challenging in terms of using the bathroom, removing clothes before a bath, sitting on the toilet and washing hands.
We also must consider, fear – In autism, children tend to form their own belief systems and so there maybe many scary emotions which they cannot communicate like a fear of falling into the toilet, fear of the sound of the flush, closed spaces or smells.
In order to have a successful toilet training programme, planning is key. If you have any of the above concerns or if you feel there might be any medical issues, always double check with a physician to rule out physical barriers.
One needs to be extremely calm, patient and respectful during this process – never ever humiliate or belittle a child for making a mess or ‘having an accident’. It is all part of the learning process and body fluids are perfectly natural.
Toilet training requires both mental and physical stamina on the part of the parents or caregivers. Just remember each child is an individual and do not compare with peers or siblings. Keep calm and a routine will quickly fall into place.
Shahan Naik
Creche Teacher
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