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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Mom assisting boy in Public Restroom?

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Aurora, CO

I am a single mom to a 5 year old boy with Autism. He just recently became totally potty trained but he still requires assistance when using the restroom. However, he exceeds the age maximum to allow him in most female public restrooms and locker rooms and looks like he is a typical 7 or 8 years old due to his size. Just when I thought I would be relieved when he became potty trained, now I have anxiety around his needing to use a public restroom because I cannot assist him. Have any other… read more

July 25, 2013
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Answer Summary

Members shared overwhelmingly supportive advice for a mom concerned about taking her 5-year-old autistic son into public women's restrooms,... Read more

Members shared overwhelmingly supportive advice for a mom concerned about taking her 5-year-old autistic son into public women's restrooms, with the strong consensus being to prioritize his safety over others' opinions and to confidently take him into the women's room for as long as needed, regardless of his size or age. Several members described practical strategies they've used, including seeking out family restrooms when possible, asking employees to clear or guard the men's room while they stand outside the door, explaining the situation calmly if questioned, carrying Autism Speaks pins or other visible signals, and waiting to transition to independent bathroom use only when the child is developmentally ready, with some members still accompanying their teenage or adult children. A recurring theme was fierce advocacy for the child's safety and dignity, with many members expressing frustration over the lack of universal family restrooms and calling for broader accommodations, while also emphasizing that most women in restrooms are understanding and that any uncomfortable strangers simply need to be educated or ignored.

A MyAutismTeam Member

Seriously? There's an age limit for boys to go into a girls rest room? I've never heard of that, and if I did, I'd totally ignore it. You do what's best for your son and don't worry about what anyone else says. My son walks right into the woman's restrooms (at age 8) and no one has ever said one word to me. And if they did, then I'd have a few things to say for them.

July 25, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

I agree with everyone. I let my son go with me until he was 9. No one said a word to me. Thank goodness most places have a "family" restroom because my son is 14, soon to be 15. As much as I hate it, I have stood outside men's room. I have even told my son to go into the men's room and sing LOUD! so that I can hear him. We all do what we have to do.

July 25, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

If a family friendly bathroom isn't available I just take my son in with me. If I get ugly looks or questioned I simple tell them why.

July 25, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

My son is almost 10 years old and I still take him in the womens bathroom with me. I've never had anyone say anything to me but if they did, I would be happy to let them know why my son is with me : )

July 25, 2013
A MyAutismTeam Member

Honestly, I would try not to stress or worry over this. First, amazing that your son is potty trained!!!
And second don't worry if someone judges you. Your son is your priority and if someone has something to say, well then they are the one with the problem. My son is also 5 and always come with me into public restrooms.I wouldn't have it any other way.
You do what you need to for the sake of your child and to protect him.

July 25, 2013

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