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Toileting Troubles? How OT Can Support Toilet Training for Children with Additional Needs

Toilet training can be a stressful and confusing time for many families—especially when a child has developmental delays, autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences. At Youth OT, we understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. We support children of all abilities to develop toileting independence at their own pace, using respectful and personalised strategies.


What’s Typical, and When to Get Help

Most children begin toilet training between ages 2 and 3, but many don’t fully achieve independence until 4 or later. For neurodivergent children or those with developmental delays, the process may take longer—and may require specific interventions.


Consider OT support if your child:

  • Avoids sitting on the toilet altogether

  • Becomes distressed during toilet routines

  • Is over 4 years old and still not daytime trained

  • Is toilet trained at home, but not in public or at school

  • Has difficulty wiping, dressing, or washing hands

  • Holds in urine or stool to avoid using the toilet


The OT Approach: Why Toileting Is About More Than Just “Holding On”

Toileting success involves multiple skill areas, including:

  • Sensory regulation (managing the sound, feel, and smell of the bathroom)

  • Motor coordination (balancing on a toilet, pulling pants up/down)

  • Executive functioning (remembering steps and initiating the routine)

  • Emotional regulation (coping with accidents, change, or pressure)


Our Step-by-Step Approach to Toilet Training

1. Assessment & Readiness

We assess your child’s:

  • Communication and understanding

  • Motor skills and physical coordination

  • Sensory sensitivities

  • Previous experiences and current barriers

2. Creating a Toileting Plan

We work with families to design a plan that includes:

  • Realistic short- and long-term goals

  • A schedule for toilet “sits”

  • Visual cues and social stories

  • Environmental adaptations

3. Skill-Building

We help children master individual steps, including:

  • Pulling clothes up/down

  • Sitting on the toilet and staying relaxed

  • Recognising body signals

  • Asking for help or navigating public toilets

4. Addressing Sensory Needs

Children with sensory processing challenges may struggle with:

  • The echoing noise of a toilet flush

  • Cold toilet seats

  • Bright lights or strong smells


We may recommend:

  • Gradual desensitisation through play

  • Headphones or dimmer lights

  • Padded or warm seats

  • Visual routines or timers


Parent Coaching and School Support

We provide:

  • Parent coaching sessions to ensure consistency at home

  • Handovers for educators or support workers

  • Letters and recommendations for NDIS funding requests

  • Advice on pull-ups vs undies and toileting during outings


FAQs

Q: Can OT help with nighttime training?A: Yes—but our focus is primarily on daytime training and underlying skills. Night training often involves additional medical or sleep support.

Q: Can we work on toileting during other OT goals?A: Absolutely. Toileting is often integrated into broader goals like self-care, emotional regulation, or sensory processing.


📞 Ready to make toileting easier for your child and family? Book a consultation with Youth OT—we’re here to support you every step of the way.


📍 Serving families in the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers and surrounding areas.


🌐 Book a consultation today: www.youth-ot.health


📞 1300 704 734

 
 
 
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