Occupational Therapy and Toileting

Occupational therapy helps people participate in the everyday activities that matter most to them.³ Occupational therapists (OTs) help children learn skills to support increased independence and participation in daily occupations, such as toileting.

In occupational therapy, occupations are the everyday activities that bring our lives purpose and meaning. Common examples include self-care, play, sleep, work, and spending time with others.³ OTs work with families to create individualized plans that help children participate in routines and gain independence.

This guide was created based on OT principles - offering strategies that reflect a family-centered approach to support the toileting process for children with disabilities.

Did You Know?

• Up to 70% of children with autism experience delays in toilet training.⁴
• Nearly half (49%) of children with autism resist toilet training. This is much more common than in children with other developmental delays (24%) or in the general population (8%).⁵
• Many child care centers and preschools require children to be toilet trained before enrollment. This can create barriers for children with developmental disabilities.²
• Children with disabilities are more likely to experience toileting delays that continue beyond age 5. This can impact participating in the classroom and socializing with others.⁶