10 Sensory Strategies for Toileting & Potty Training Tips

Summary

In this informative video, Rachel and Jessica, certified occupational therapy assistants from Harkla, share ten essential sensory tips for bathroom use, split into two segments: potty training for toddlers and strategies for older children facing sensory challenges. They discuss reasons behind potty training struggles, such as interoception and proprioceptive issues, and offer practical tips like ensuring readiness, using visual schedules, and promoting independence. For older kids, they suggest managing noise, adjusting lighting, controlling odors, and using sticky notes for automatic flushers. This engaging session aims to empower parents and caregivers with effective tools to support children's bathroom experiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understanding a child's struggles with potty training may involve poor interoception and proprioception.
• 🧸 It's essential to ensure that a child is physically and emotionally ready to start potty training.
• 📅 Using a visual schedule can help establish a consistent routine for bathroom use.
• 📖 Implementing social stories can effectively explain the potty training process to children.
• 💖 Patience and empathy are crucial in supporting children during the potty training journey.
• 🪑 Encouraging independence in the bathroom can be facilitated through the use of supportive tools.
• 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones can help children manage overwhelming sounds in public restrooms.
• 💡 Adjusting lighting with colored filters or night lights can create a calmer bathroom environment.
• 🌸 Controlling bathroom scents with sprays or essential oil accessories can reduce discomfort for children.
• 🔍 Covering automatic flushers in public restrooms can prevent unexpected noises that startle children.

Q & A

What is interoception, and why is it important for potty training?

Interoception is the understanding of the internal workings of the body, which includes knowing when to use the bathroom. If a child's interoceptive system isn't processing correctly, they may not feel the urge to go.

What are some signs that a child might be ready for potty training?

Signs include showing interest in the toilet, taking off their diaper, hiding when going to the bathroom, and being able to communicate that their diaper is wet or soiled.

How can parents support their child’s readiness for potty training?

Parents can ensure their child is physically, emotionally, and cognitively ready, and they can facilitate the process by identifying readiness signs and teaching them about using the toilet.

What is a visual schedule, and how can it aid in potty training?

A visual schedule outlines when the child should use the bathroom at the same time each day, helping them establish a routine and reinforcing the behavior of using the toilet.

Why is empathy important during the potty training process?

Empathy helps parents understand that children are not resisting potty training intentionally. Recognizing their struggles fosters a supportive environment that can ease anxiety and promote learning.

What modifications can be made to help a child feel more independent in the bathroom?

Providing a stool, toilet seat insert, and accessible towel hooks can empower children to use the bathroom independently and build their confidence.

What sensory challenges might older children face in the bathroom?

Older children may struggle with sensory overload due to factors like loud noises, bright lights, or unpleasant smells, making the bathroom an intimidating environment.

How can noise-canceling headphones help children in public restrooms?

Offering noise-canceling headphones can help children cope with loud noises, such as toilet flushes, making them feel more comfortable while using public restrooms.

What strategies can be used to address the issue of bright lights in the bathroom?

Changing the lighting by using colored paper to cover bright lights or using a nightlight can create a calmer atmosphere for children who are sensitive to bright lights.

How can vestibular input aid children struggling with potty training?

Providing intense linear vestibular input, such as swinging or spinning, can help children better connect their sensory systems, potentially improving their ability to recognize when they need to go to the bathroom.