Download our new Lancs Child and Family app!
Our new family-focused app gives lots of information and advice.
https://lancschildandfamily.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mid-shot-baby-sitting-drawer-500x281-1.jpg
Toddler sitting beside a cot looking down
Toilet training children with additional needs
For: 0-19 years
Children with additional needs may need more time and support to learn to use the toilet. Every child learns at their own pace. This page explains the steps you can try and where to find more help.
More about toilet training children with additional needs
Children with additional needs may learn toileting skills at a different pace. They may benefit from an approach that suits them. Communication, learning, movement or following a routine may make toilet training harder. Some children may also respond strongly to sounds, smells, touch or other sensations.
Some children may not notice when they need a wee or a poo. Others may find the bathroom confusing or difficult to use. Using pictures, rewards, simple stories and regular toilet visits can help children learn toileting skills.
Talk to a health professional if you're worried your child has problems with weeing, pooing or their health. Support from family, nursery, school or college can help your child make progress. Your child may learn to stay dry, use the toilet and do more for themselves.
Questions and answers
How do I start toilet training my child with additional needs?
Children with additional needs may take longer to learn to use the toilet. They may also need an approach that meets their individual needs. You can start toilet training at any age. Introduce the potty or toilet as part of your child's daily routine. Encourage your child to sit on it regularly, such as after meals or before a bath.
Keep things calm and consistent. Give your child time to learn and praise their efforts. Accidents are normal and part of learning. If you need extra support, your local service may be able to help.
My child cannot tell me when they need the toilet. How can they be toilet trained?
Many children can learn to use the toilet even if they cannot tell you when they need to go. Instead of waiting for your child to ask, start with regular toilet or potty visits at set times throughout the day. Watching for signs that they need the toilet, using visual prompts, and following a consistent routine can also help. Over time, many children learn to recognise the feeling of needing the toilet and become more independent.
My child is toilet trained but still wetting - what can I do?
If your child is toilet trained but is still wetting, make sure they are drinking enough. Aim for about 6 drinks a day (about 250ml each), spread across the day. Water is the best choice. Try to avoid fizzy drinks and drinks with caffeine. It is also important to check for constipation, as this can affect how well the bladder works.
What should I do if I think my child is constipated?
If your child is showing signs of constipation (such as pooing less than three times a week, painful or hard poos, poo in their pants or withholding), it’s important to seek medical advice. Start by contacting your GP, who can assess your child, provide treatment if needed, and make an onward referral to specialist services if appropriate.
How can I teach my child to wipe their bottom?
Start by doing most of the task and letting your child finish the last step. As they learn, let them do more of the task themselves. You can gently guide your child's hand to show them the movement. Give them less help as they learn.
Should my child's school follow the same toileting plan?
Share your child's toileting plan with their nursery, school or college. Tell staff which words, pictures, routines and rewards work well for your child. Using the same routine in different places may help your child learn and feel more confident.
Services that can help
Give us feedback on this page
Tell us what was helpful, what was missing, or if something didn't make sense.