Potty training an autistic child can be challenging. Autism delays a child's ability to identify sensations associated with urination and bowel movements. Understanding of methods when using the potty also tend to confuse autistic children. Patience and taking your time with your child will help the both of you successfully potty train and give your child a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Step 1
Show your child a book or DVD outlining how to use the toilet. Most autistic children are more visual learners, and this will help them to understand what is to be expected of them.
Step 2
Schedule bathroom visits for your child. Accidents are more likely to occur in autistic children since they have an inability to recognize evacuation sensations. Keeping your child on a schedule can help eliminate accidents and instill in your child the importance of using the toilet.
Step 3
Practice patience and determination. Autistic children can take months to potty train. Showing frustration will set them back, since they can sense your tension, and this in turn will cause them frustration. Their frustration can cause refusal to use the potty indefinitely.
Step 4
Purchase a doll that wets when you give it water. This will help your child understand what causes you to have to potty and when to potty. You can tell your child that after she drinks or eats, it is time to go to the potty.
Step 5
Teach your child signs that he can use to tell you when it is time to potty. Some children with autism have severe speech delays and may not be able to properly communicate the need to potty once they can decipher the urges. Crossing the legs, pointing downward or pointing to the restroom is a good way of overcoming this obstacle.
