Toilet training for children with additional needs

Abstract

Becoming toilet trained is a milestone all parents strive for; but for families of children with additional needs this may appear to be an unobtainable goal. It is important that assessment and introduction of toilet-training skills should not be delayed purely on the basis of the child's perceived lack of ‘readiness’. Studies have identified that a delay in achieving bladder control increases the risk of both bladder problems and constipation, and lack of assessment could result in potential underlying co-morbidities being missed. The introduction of a step-by-step approach to toilet training with ongoing assessment enables the child to develop the appropriate skills and any underlying pathology to be identified and addressed in a timely manner.