Toilet training children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be a challenging and prolonged process, often becoming one of the most significant stressors for parents. At BeeKind ABA Therapy, we recognize the frustrations parents face, as toileting is a critical skill that significantly impacts a child's social relationships, classroom placement, and overall development. This milestone is not only a marker of independence but also affects families financially and socially, as parents may avoid public settings due to fear of judgement.
Identifying Barriers to Toileting
The complexity of toilet training for autistic children arises from a combination of behavioral challenges, sensory processing disorders, fear of using the toilet, lack of bodily awareness, and difficulty following instructions. These issues are often compounded by other health concerns and physical impairments. Research in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) has been addressing these challenges since the 1970s, providing a foundation for effective strategies to support toilet training.
To begin toilet training, it is essential for parents to identify specific barriers their child may be facing. These can include physical or health issues such as an inability to sense a full bladder or bowel, hearing or visual impairments, and communication deficits. Behavioral issues, such as resistance to transitioning from preferred activities or noncompliance with new routines, also play a significant role. Understanding these barriers can help parents and therapists develop tailored strategies that address the child's unique needs.
In school settings, the expectation that children are toilet trained by school age places additional pressure on parents of children with Autism. For those not yet toilet trained, this goal often becomes part of the child's Individualized Education Plan (IEP), aiming for progress throughout the school year. However, the lack of toilet training may limit classroom options, sometimes resulting in placement in special education environments.
How to be Successful with Toileting at Home:
For successful toilet training at home, consistency is crucial. Parents should collaborate with their child's Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to create a structured toilet training schedule. This behavior-analytic approach includes assessing the child's current level, implementing training, and making data-based decisions. Patience and viewing the toilet as a positive reinforcer can minimize resistance and expedite the training process. At BeeKind ABA Therapy, we offer comprehensive support for toilet training, including weekly parent sessions to increase confidence and provide additional guidance, ensuring families are not alone in this journey.
Ready to begin successful toilet training with BeeKind ABA Therapy? Begin Enrollment here: https://www.beekindaba.com/enrollmentform2024. We process enrollment forms within 24-48 business hours.
References:
A Behavioral Approach to Toilet Training People with IDD https://reliasacademy.com/rls/store/courses/a-behavioral-approach-to-toilet-training-people-with-idd/_/A-product-c1478175
Azrin, N. H., & Foxx, R. M. (1971). A rapid method of toilet training the institutionalized retarded 1. Journal of applied behavior analysis, 4(2), 89-99.
Legg, T. Understanding Nonspeaking Autism (2023). https://www.healthline.com/health/autism/nonverbal-autism#diagnosis
Thank you for acknowledging the parent perspective! Good read!😊
This was very helpful information, thank you!