Potty training can be a monumental task, especially for sensory-sensitive children. Sensory integration – the way the brain organises information from the senses to make sense of the world and respond appropriately – is a crucial part of this process. It’s what helps children recognise those first "got-to-go" feelings, manage the sensations that come with bathroom time, and feel secure enough to tackle this milestone. Without proper sensory integration, potty training can feel impossible for children and deeply frustrating for parents (Kranowitz, 2016).
How Sensory Integration Affects Potty Training
1. Interoceptive Awareness
Interoception is the sense that lets us feel internal body signals, like when the bladder or bowel is full. If a child has trouble processing these signals, they might not notice the need to go until it’s too late—or they might confuse the feeling entirely. This can lead to accidents, frustration, or a complete lack of readiness to start potty training (Mahler, 2017).
2. Sensory Sensitivities
A bathroom trip is full of sensations that can be overwhelming for sensory-sensitive kids (Yack, Sutton, & Aquilla, 2015):
Stopping play to go to the bathroom (a big transition!).
The coldness of a toilet seat.
Wetness from washing hands or an accidental splash.
Wiping (which can be unpleasant or even painful).
The sound of flushing or bathroom echoes.
Unfamiliar or strong smells.
For some kids, even one of these can be enough to make them avoid the bathroom entirely.
3. Proprioceptive Challenges
Proprioception – the sense that helps us understand where our bodies are in space – comes into play when sitting securely on a toilet or balancing to wipe. If a child struggles with this, they might feel unstable or unsafe, which can make the whole process seem very scary and impossible (Schaaf & Mailloux, 2015).
4. Struggles with Transitions
If a child finds transitions difficult (as is very often the case with sensory sensitive children), leaving a fun activity like playing to do something “boring” like using the bathroom can feel overwhelming. When kids are already dealing with sensory overload, asking them to shift focus can push them to their limit, leading to resistance or meltdowns (Porges, 2011).
5. Emotional Regulation
Potty training is emotionally loaded. For children with sensory challenges, the mix of physical sensations, expectations, and setbacks can trigger anxiety. Stress from not meeting expectations, coupled with sensory sensitivities, can create a vicious cycle (Kranowitz, 2016).
6. Painful Early Experiences
If a child has experienced pain from things like constipation or reflux, they might disconnect from their body’s signals as a way to cope. This can lead to hypo-sensitivity, where stronger body signals are needed to be noticed, making potty training even harder (Mahler, 2017).
Supporting Sensory-Sensitive Children Through Potty Training
1. Provide a Predictable Routine
Kids thrive on routines, especially those with sensory sensitivities. Visual schedules, timers, or simple reminders can make bathroom time feel less daunting. Predictability creates a sense of felt-safety and even a measure of control, which is key for helping a child tune into their body and approach potty training with more confidence (Porges, 2011)
2. Make the Bathroom a Safe Place
Minimise sensory triggers by creating a calm, comfortable environment. Avoid flushing without warning or wait until the child is out of the room (if the sound is too much). Read a story or play calming music to make the experience less stressful (Yack, Sutton, & Aquilla, 2015).
3. Use Sensory-Friendly Tools
Choose tools that reduce stress: a comfy potty seat, soft toilet paper, or warm water wipes. Keep a spare set of clothes handy for mishaps and make sure your child’s potty training clothes are easy to take off and put on (Schaaf & Mailloux, 2015).
4. Build Interoceptive Awareness
Play games that help your child connect with their body’s signals. Activities like mindfulness exercises, or simple body-awareness games can help. If this area is a major struggle, reaching out to an occupational therapist who understands interoception can be a game-changer (Mahler, 2017).
5. Go Slow, Stay Flexible
Potty training is a skill that builds with time and practice. Rushing your child or expecting perfection can create anxiety and setbacks. Be patient, adapt strategies to their needs, and celebrate small wins along the way (Porges, 2011).
6. Avoid Punishment and Rewards
No child wants to struggle with potty training. Shaming or bribing them can add unnecessary pressure and create feelings of failure. Instead, focus on understanding the challenges they’re facing and offering support (Kranowitz, 2016).
7. Start When They’re Ready
Age isn’t the best guide for potty training readiness. Look for signs that your child is physically, emotionally, and developmentally ready. Starting too soon can lead to frustration and unnecessary stress for everyone involved (Schaaf & Mailloux, 2015).
When this important milestone feels like it's taking longer than expected, don’t lose hope. Give your little one the time and space to develop the necessary skills at their own pace, free from the pressure of comparisons to peers. Communicate openly with caregivers and family members to ensure everyone is on the same page and supportive of the approach. Remember, success rarely comes from shame or humiliation—it flourishes in an environment of patience, understanding, and encouragement.
References
Mahler, K. (2017). The Interoception Curriculum: A Step-by-Step Framework for Developing Mindful Self-Regulation. Kansas: AAPC Publishing.
Porges, S.W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.
Schaaf, R.C., & Mailloux, Z. (2015). Clinician’s Guide for Implementing Ayres Sensory Integration: Promoting Participation for Children with Autism. Bethesda: AOTA Press.
Kranowitz, C.S. (2016). The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder. New York: Penguin.
Yack, E., Sutton, S., & Aquilla, P. (2015). Building Bridges through Sensory Integration. Arlington: Future Horizons.
For more information on UNDERSTANDING YOUR SENSORY SENSITIVE KIDDO
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