Some have anxieties around using the toilet; think how cleaning product adverts suggest germ monsters live under the toilet seat! Many children experience sensory differences. For some this can mean they do not register that their bowel or bladder is full or they don't feel the need to go.
Sensory problems
Sometimes reluctance to let go of the poo in the toilet is linked to children on the autism spectrum having difficulties linked to either increased or reduced reaction to sensory messages. This may affect their balance on the toilet or their awareness of body sensations.
Children who are sensitive to touch may not like sitting on toilet seats, which may feel hard or cold. They could be upset by feeling wee or poo on their hands or body, and feeling splashes of water from the toilet. They may not like the sensation of toilet paper or wipes, solid or liquid soaps.
Maintaining personal hygiene can be problematic for someone with autism. It might simply be that they don't understand the importance of personal hygiene or the social implications, and need reminding to have a shower, brush their teeth, wash their clothes etc. For some, there are also sensory issues to consider.
Children with autism might have more problems with constipation than other children. Difficulty with things like sitting on the toilet and eating different foods can make treating constipation challenging. This tool kit is to help parents manage constipation in their children with autism*.
There are some autistic characteristics that can lead to difficulties with learning to use the toilet (Wheeler, 2007; Coucouvanis, 2008). Some of the language and communication around toileting can be confusing. They may not understand what you are asking them to do or could take things very literally.
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.
Many children with autism are drawn to water for its calming, sensory experience. In fact, a 2015 study[1] found that children with ASD enjoy swimming significantly more than children without ASD. And while water can present a safety concern, water play and swimming also offer several benefits for children with ASD.
Although most children on the autism spectrum eventually learn to use the toilet, the process may take a long time. The average age when children with autism become potty trained is 3.3 years, compared to 2.5 years for children with other developmental disabilities and 2.3 years for neurotypical children.
It is easy to see why many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are captivated by water. The number of stimuli associated with water hits all the senses! The feel of water, the sounds of waves and splashes, the visuals of light reflecting off the surface, and even the smell can all be so enticing.
Toileting behaviors and habits include activities associated with voiding or urination, such as use of the bathroom and toilet (public or private), the way women void, what they hear or see related to voiding practices, and social norms informing voiding habits.
Some young people with autism will have a heightened sense of smell or touch which can make some aspects of personal hygiene uncomfortable. The feel of water from a shower, the smell of particular soaps or shampoos and the texture of some towels may all have an impact.
To toilet train your child, have him or her sit on the toilet (taking breaks every half hour) for as long as you can. Dr. Kroeger and her team literally spend all day in the bathroom, from the time the child wakes up until he goes to bed. Drinks, food, and playtime can all take place in the bathroom.
Children with ADHD may not respond as promptly to physical cues of either defecation or urination, and have difficulty interrupting current more desirable tasks. Children with ADHD may be unable to focus on defecatory urges long enough to carry out normal evacuation.
Level 1 is the mildest, or “highest functioning” form of autism, which includes those who would have previously been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome. Individuals with ASD level 1 may have difficulty understanding social cues and may struggle to form and maintain personal relationships.
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.
If your child is developmentally delayed or autistic, they may be in diapers for years to come, but if your child is otherwise developmentally on track, then they should be toilet trained by school age.
Many children on the autism spectrum are fascinated by animals, trains, or other aspects of the real world. Selected TV and videos, such as "Animal Planet" and the "Eye Witness" videos can build on those interests.
Focus on the positive. Just like anyone else, children with autism spectrum disorder often respond well to positive reinforcement. That means when you praise them for the behaviors they're doing well, it will make them (and you) feel good. Be specific, so that they know exactly what you liked about their behavior.
Hobbies such as collecting stamps, playing cards or board games, drawing and photography can also provide opportunities for enjoyment, as well as increased self-confidence and motivation individuals on the spectrum.
Incontinence is often prevalent in children with autism due to common delays in potty training. Some nonverbal children with autism may also not be able to communicate the need to use the restroom, resulting in unwanted accidents.
Your child isn't being rude on purpose – they might not know they should say hello. Your child might start hitting something because a particular noise is upsetting them. Or your child might smear poo on the wall because they like the warmth and texture of it, not because they want to upset you or do the wrong thing.