Potty training a Level 2 autistic child around age 3-4 can take longer than typical, and that's completely okay! Communication differences and sensory sensitivities can make the process more gradual, so patience is key.
Here are some strategies that have worked for many families:
- Use social stories β Visual step-by-step Show Full Answer
Potty training a Level 2 autistic child around age 3-4 can take longer than typical, and that's completely okay! Communication differences and sensory sensitivities can make the process more gradual, so patience is key.
Here are some strategies that have worked for many families:
- Use social stories β Visual step-by-step guides showing what the toilet process looks like can really help. These can be made using photos or simple drawings, even on a tablet
- Work with a professional β An occupational therapist (OT) or board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA) can create a personalized plan for your child
- Use a reward system β Celebrate every small step forward, no matter how tiny it seems
- Take incremental steps β Don't rush the process; break it into small, manageable stages
- Address sensory concerns β Some autistic children are sensitive to toilet sounds or sensations, so identifying and reducing those triggers helps
One MyAutismTeam member shared that after working closely with a BCBA, using social stories, and rewarding every bit of progress, their child eventually succeeded β and they wanted others to know: *"IT DOES GET BETTER!"*
It's also worth looping in your child's pediatrician to make sure the plan fits your child's specific needs.
July 16