When To Seek More Support

You don't have to do this alone! If toileting feels overwhelming or unsuccessful, seeking help is a great next step! Professionals can help by providing treatment plans to support toileting challenges. Consider reaching out if these challenges persist over time:

• Accidents that don't improve or lessen.
• Signs of pain or discomfort when toileting (straining, avoiding the toilet because it hurts, etc.).
• Strong resistance or fear of the bathroom.
• Limited progress after several months, even with a structured plans in place.
• The child's delays in communication make it difficulty to express needs.
• Interfering behaviors (e.g. biting, hitting, etc.) that make the toileting process unsafe.

Who Can Help?

Toileting is a team effort. There are different professionals to support every step of the way.²⁰

• Pediatrician or Family Doctor:

  To rule out medical concerns like constipation, urinary tract infections, or gastrointestinal issues.

• Occupational Therapist (OT):

  To provide sensory strategies, adaptive equipment (like potty seats or footstools), visual supports, and toileting plans.

• Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP):

  To support communication strategies so your child can express when they need the bathroom.

• Behavior Specialist or Psychologist:

  To help with interfering behaviors such as refusal, fear of the toilet, or resistance to routines.

• Gastroenterologist (GI Specialist):

  For chronic constipation, diarrhea, or other bowel-related concerns that may interfere with toilet training.

• School or Early Intervention Team:

  Teachers, aides, and other support staff can carry over strategies in the classroom to keep routines consistent.

Always Remember…

• Be patient!

  Toileting is a journey, and positivity makes all the difference!

• Consistency is key!

  Progress takes time, stick to the plan and don't give up!

• You are never alone- Support is out there!

  Support groups, community resources, etc.

• Celebrate wins!

  Build your child's confidence by celebrating both big and small victories along the way.