How to Potty Train a Child with Autism

Potty training any child can be difficult, but potty training a child with autism is usually 10 times harder. I grew tired of people staring at my son or looking at me like I was a bad mother when they realized that my preschooler was still wearing a diaper or a pull-up. It also became increasingly harder to find a preschool or daycare that would accept a child that was not toilet trained.

Chances are that if you are reading this article, someone you know or love has autism. My son is now almost 6 years old and we conquered potty training and so can you. Following are some tips that helped me and hopefully they will help you too.

1. Movies and Books on Potty Training
Since almost all kids with autism are extremely visual, this is a good first step to introducing them to the whole concept. You can find movies and books on potty training for very cheap on ebay, half.com, and amazon. Most kids won't initially watch the whole video because it is something different to them. Try to put it in even for a few minutes at a time until they can eventually sit through the whole thing. This is great modeling for them because they can see other kids using the potty and they can also visually see the steps. Some of my favorite picks are "Potty Power", "It's Potty Time", and "Bear in the Big Blue House- Potty Time With Bear". These movies include some really catchy songs like "Super Duper Pooper" which kids love and brings a bit of humor to the situation.

2. Pictures or Pecs
Another extremely important step, the more visuals for the child the better. There are many great sites where you can print potty and bathroom pictures for free. You can even find pictures with pee and poop in the potty. While that is not necessary for a "typical" child it is very important for a child with autism to see the exact details. You can even find bathroom sequence pecs so that your child can see every step for going to the bathroom. Try to show your child the picture before taking them into the bathroom. They may resist or even have a meltdown when they see the picture, but try to be consistent.

3. Social Stories
I have not used this, but many children find social stories helpful. Social stories are different than a regular children's book. Social stories show the sequence of events so that a child can see in book format what steps need to take place. You can find these online or make one yourself.

4. Picture Schedule
Incorporate potty pictures into your child's picture schedule if they have one. This will help them know when it is time to go to the bathroom or at least try to go. It is also helpful if they can do this at your child's preschool or daycare if they go to one. Consistency is important and if you have it in your schedule at home, but they don't have at school, that may cause a setback.

5. Set an Example
Like typical kids it's important for children with autism to see other people using the potty. If they have a big brother or sister send them in with them. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or friend you can have them sit on the potty or on a potty chair.

6. Get Rid of the Diaper or Pull-ups
This was probably the most vital thing for my situation. Most kids are in the habit of going in their pants, so if they have one on, they won't make the effort to try to use the bathroom. Many won't even notice that they are wet until they begin to wear underwear. Your child may resist underwear at first because it is something new, but try to begin with having them on for even a few minutes. You may even have to hide the diapers so that your child will have to wear underwear.

7. Praise and Reward
Make a big production out of the little things, but you probably already know this. Your child probably has an object or food that they would do about anything for, use this to your advantage. For my son, it was balloons. So every time he would even try to use the potty, or at least go near it, I would give him a balloon. I wouldn't suggest using food, but if that's the only leverage you got, go for it.

8. Sign Language and More Pictures
For kids that are non-verbal, it's hard to tell when they have to go when you are out in public. Teaching them how to sign potty may be helpful and keep a picture of a potty on your key chain or with your pictures if you take them with you. Look for signs that they may have to go and just take them.

I hope these steps have helped you, it will take a lot of patience and a lot of time, but your child is worth it.