For children with cognitive disabilities, potty-training is both a tremendous obstacle and an important milestone. According to the National Institutes of Health, roughly 1 in 50 Americans has mental retardation, and the degree of disability can range widely in its severity. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that most mentally retarded children are capable of potty-training, although the process may be more stressful and time-intensive than average. Despite the challenges associated with potty-training a developmentally disabled child, the end result is worth the effort. The child has accomplished his first major step toward self-care and independence.
Step 1
Observe your child for signs of readiness. A child who is ready to use the potty can take off his pants and understand basic verbal cues. He should also understand when he needs to relieve himself and should feel uncomfortable when he is wearing a wet or soiled diaper.
Step 2
Talk to your child's pediatrician and any occupational therapists who work with her. A medical expert who knows your child can evaluate her readiness and provide helpful tips for overcoming obstacles.
Step 3
Check your child's diaper every hour for signs of wetness or feces. Communicate your observations to the child without judgment. When you replace a soiled diaper with a clean one, cheer and say, "You're all clean now!"
Step 4
Bring your child to the potty every hour, allowing him to sit on the child-sized toilet for at least five minutes. Entertain him with songs, cheers and conversation while he sits on the chair. Encourage him to sit on the potty even if he isn't relieving himself; he needs to be comfortable with the toilet before he can use it regularly.
Step 5
Display enthusiasm and reward your child when she defecates or urinates in the potty, even if the first achievement occurs unintentionally. Offer her a reward, such as a sticker or a small piece of candy.
Step 6
Begin allowing your child to wear underwear instead of diapers. If your child likes a certain color, television character or animal, select underpants that match these interests. Demonstrate that you are proud of your child for wearing these garments, but do not force them on him if he is not prepared to move away from diapers.
Step 7
Bring your child to the toilet at regular intervals until he begins initiating potty-trips himself. The AAP notes that children with mental retardation do not learn potty training "all at once." Instead, they may master bladder control, communicating their needs and wiping their bottoms one step at a time. It may take several months or years before your child is completely independent in the bathroom.
Tips and Warnings
- Children with severe mental retardation may never learn to use the bathroom without some degree of assistance. Tell all of your child's caregivers about your child's efforts and progress. Ask for cooperation from babysitters and family members.
Things You'll Need
- Diapers
- Child-size potty
- Children's underpants
