Toilet training can be a challenging milestone for any child, but it can present extra challenges for kids who need extra support.

Whether they have developmental delays, physical disabilities, or sensory sensitivities, there are many ways to make the toilet training process easier, and a major win!

1. Make Sure They're Ready

Before you start the toilet training journey with your child, make sure they're ready to — both physically and emotionally.

Signs of readiness include:

• Staying dry for longer stretches (at least two hours.)
• Showing awareness of needing to wee or poo (like pausing play, fidgeting, or having them tell you.)
• Wanting to use the toilet or showing curiosity about it.

2. Set Up a Routine

Many children who need extra support find comfort in having routines. Creating a consistent toilet training plan, such as sitting on the toilet at specific times during the day, can help them know when it's time to go or when it's time to change their Nundies.

3. Create a Comfy Environment

To make your child feel at ease, changes to the bathroom environment should be made to suit their needs. This could include installing supportive equipment, such as handles or grab bars on either side of the toilet, or raised toilet seats to help those with physical disabilities. Ensuring the bathroom is well-lit, calm, and free of anything that may overwhelm or distract your child is also important.

Making these small tweaks can totally change how your child feels about toilet time. The more comfortable they are, the easier the whole process becomes!

4. Use Visual Aids

Many kids who need extra support find visual cues helpful. Try visual planners or picture charts to show a step-by-step guide to using the toilet — These can provide clarity and structure, helping them understand and follow the process. Using animated videos can be a fun way to teach toilet training too! 

Depending on your child,  using sign language for common toileting words and phrases can also help them to grow and learn.

5. Consider Sensory Sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities can play a major role when it comes to toilet training.
If your child has any specific sensory issues, the right changes should be made to their toilet training routine. Everyone's journey is different, and their routine should be suited to what they need.

For example, if they are sensitive to certain textures, consider using softer or hypoallergenic toilet paper.

6. Make it Fun and Reward Progress

Positive reinforcement works wonders for kids who need extra support. You can keep things light, encouraging, and rewarding in a few different ways.

Use a sticker chart or a fun reward system for each milestone. Make sure you celebrate even the tiny victories - a high-five, a dance party, or a little treat can go a long way!

This positive reinforcement can encourage them to continue making progress and also help them to boost their confidence.

7. Keep Routines Personal

Every child is unique, so it's important that the toilet training approach is suited to their needs and abilities. Adapt techniques and routines so that they can let their strengths shine through, and find those hurdles easier to jump over. 

For example, if they struggle with fine motor skills, use clothing fasteners or find adaptive clothing options. 

8. Go at Your Child's Pace

Every child is different, and that’s 100% okay. If things start feeling overwhelming, hit pause and try again later. Sometimes, a little break makes a huge difference.

• Celebrate progress over perfection—small wins add up!
• Don't rush! Some kids take longer, and that’s totally normal.
• Stay positive—your encouragement means everything!

9. When In Doubt, Ask For Help

If toilet training is feeling extra tough, don’t be afraid to reach out for support.

Occupational therapists or paediatricians can provide strategies, and support to help you navigate the process. They can also help identify any underlying challenges that might be making training harder.

10. Celebrate Every Milestone, No Matter the Size

Remember to celebrate both small and big milestones along the way. Each step towards independent toileting is progress! Let them know that they're doing an amazing job and make them feel like they can do it—because they can! This will help to further encourage their progress. 

Toilet training is a rollercoaster, and can come with a few bumpy moments. But it's all apart of the ride, and you'll get there, even if it takes a few extra steps. 
You've got this!

Just a quick note: This isn’t medical advice — just friendly tips to help you with the toilet training journey. Every kid is different, and if you’re noticing bigger challenges that are harder to overcome or are unsure on how to help ongoing difficulties, it’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor or a child specialist. They’ll help you figure out what kind of support might work best for your little one.