A study by Dalrymple and Ruble (1992) found that, on average, children with ASD require 1.6 years of toilet training to stay dry during the day and sometimes more than 2 years to achieve bowel control. It can be a few years journey but to achieve a lifetime of toileting independence is worth the wait!
The average age in which a child is successfully toileting was 3.3 years of age for children with autism in comparison to 2.5 years of age for children with other developmental disabilities (Williams, Oliver, Allard, & Sears, 2003).
This can be done by taking them to the bathroom and having them sit on the toilet or play around it, with the lid open or closed, with their clothes on — just to get comfortable around the toilet. Take peeing and pooping one step at a time. Usually a child pees first and then gets comfortable pooping in a toilet.
Many children with autism take longer than is typical to learn how to use the toilet. This delay can stem from a variety of reasons. Many children with autism have a general developmental delay. That is, they simply learn new skills more slowly than other children do.
For some children on the autism spectrum, this can involve overwhelming or otherwise unpleasant sensory experiences. Common examples include the loud flush of the toilet, the feel of a cold, hard toilet seat or an unsteadiness on the toilet seat that leads to a fear of falling in or off the toilet.
For some people with autism, wearing diapers can be a normal part of everyday life and sensory issues may cause challenges finding the supplies and diapers autistic people will tolerate. That is why it is so important to have access to the latest information about the best incontinence products and supplies.
Potty training an autistic child like Alexander needs a little extra time before he/she is. Children on the spectrum are often slower to reach milestones, making it necessary to wear big kid diapers, pull-ups or youth pants for an extended number of years.
Heightened Sensory Issues
Children on the spectrum are often hypersensitive to environmental stimuli. And considering that bathing involves several simultaneous actions, it can be confusing and emotionally stressful for them.
ASD level 3 is characterized by severe challenges in social communication as well as extremely inflexible behavior. Children with level 3 autism will be nonverbal or have the use of only a few words of intelligible speech. Initiation of social interaction is very limited, as well as response to others.
This may happen because they like the feel of the poo, or it may happen because they do not realise they are meant to use toilet paper to wipe themselves. Providing clear picture cues of what is expected, making sure that the toilet paper or wipes are comfortable and easy to use can help.
In severe cases, an autistic child may never learn to speak or make eye contact. But many children with autism and other autism spectrum disorders are able to live relatively normal lives.
Some families with children on the autism spectrum send their children to typical preschools with (or without) one-on-one support. Depending on the child, the preschool, and the type of 1:1 support available to the family through public or private sources, this can work out very well.
Generally, if a child is 5 and still not potty trained, the child needs to be seen by a doctor, McCarthy said.
Most kids who are not potty trained by the age of 6 are likely to be passing through one medical issue or the other. It is important that the parents are observant to know and proactive enough to seek medical attention at the right time.
Children with ASD often need a hug, just like other children. Sometimes they need this much more than other children. But some children don't like to be touched. Respect their personal space.
Children with autism seek sensory input in a myriad of ways. Some enjoy the physical touch of loved ones through hugs, tickles, cuddles, and kisses.
Find sensory tools that can comfort a child at times of stress. These may include squeezy toys, weighted blankets, a calming video or book, a swing set, or even a pet. If a meltdown occurs, allow your child the time and space to calm themselves down and learn to self-regulate.
Your child might get upset if too much is happening around them, if they find a particular noise overwhelming, or if the light is too bright. Autistic children can get frustrated if they're expected to do something they don't have the skills for, like getting dressed independently.
Among those with autism, common triggers include disturbing breaks in routine, lack of sleep, jarring “sensory stimuli” (noises, lights, or smells) or even undiagnosed mental health problems. Clearly, it's important to look beyond the behavior itself to identify the underlying cause.
Kids with autism experience “deficits in developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships, ranging, for example, from difficulties adjusting behavior to suit various social contexts; to difficulties in sharing imaginative play or in making friends; to the absence of interest in peers (DSM-5).”
Children with an ASD are not vigilant and do not look up to the caregiver for social referencing. They may not cling to the caregiver, although go up to them for succor. However, some cling to the caregiver because of extreme anxiety.
Sensory toys help children with autism relax, focus, and calm down to a scenario or event. It helps them grasp objects with decreased dear and discomfort, ultimately helping them play naturally. Futhermore, sensory toys help develop social learning skills like negotiating, planning, and sharing.
Children with autism are more likely to experience bedwetting than their neurotypical peers, and there are several factors that may contribute to this. It is important for parents to be aware of this connection and to seek support if their child is struggling with bedwetting.