Potty-training is an exciting time of both parents and the toddler. Many parents are curious about the perfect time to start potty-training. Pediatricians recommend that potty-training varies from child to child – what’s important is that the child must show all signs of readiness before parents can begin to toilet-train him or her. The toddler must be able to know when he or she has soiled diapers. He or she must also be interested and be comfortable in sitting on a toiler with assistance, and must show ability to pull his or her own pants down or up.

Contrary to popular belief, children with autism, too, can be potty-trained, using effective techniques. Some experts say that some autistic children can toilet-train as early as their second year of life even before the signs mentioned above become apparent, while others need more time and patience.

The problem with toilet training children with autism is that there is too much advice going on here and there. Some specialists recommend “waiting until the toddler is ready”, even when the toddler reaches school age.  Others suggest that autistic children must be potty-trained as early as their 18^th month of life. However, one universal truth is this: Parents and guardians must be aware that children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), have characteristics that may interfere with standard toilet training techniques.

This article has helpful hints for parents who wish to potty train their autistic child. Each technique is based on common issues that children with ASD or PDD-NOS have, because its these very issues that make toilet training even more challenging for them and their parents.

Problems with communication: A child with ASD or PDD-NOS may have difficulty in speech and comprehension. He or she may have a hard time associating language with things, persons and places. They may not have sufficient language skills to express the need to go to the bathroom, or may not be able to talk about an urge.  Expressive language is important with children who has ASD, thus it is crucial for parents to allow their children to find their own way of expression.

Impaired social interaction: Children with ASD may either be too distant, or too intimate, and may fail to be just between these extremes. Parents may tell their autistic child that he or she is now a big girl, or a big boy, and must go to the bathroom by him or herself, but this makes very little sense to the child and may resist your gentle prodding.

Tendency towards repetitive actions: Children with ASD are considered be prone to repetitive actions and like routines to fill their schedules. Introduction to potty-training may only distress them, because it breaks their routine. This will require insistence on your end. You will need to meet your child’s resistance with preparation, and must continue to incorporate toilet training into their routine.

Parents must choose only one technique and stick to it, since experimenting with various techniques will only create setbacks and disruptions in the child’s routine, delaying toilet training even more. It must be a relaxed environment, and parents must never force the child. Finally, parents can assess readiness by reading the signs carefully and accurately. The child must be able to imitate actions, respond positively to praises and rewards, and has the desire to remain dry and clean.