Step 4: Self Initiation for toilet training

The final step in getting the child ready to use the toilet independently is ‘initiation’.

Self-initiation will happen, once all the previous steps have been practiced. The child may show signs such as:

1. The child may ask to be taken or start going to the bathroom on their own.
2. They may use the language that has been modelled to them, such as ‘toilet’, ‘bathroom’
3. Children may also use picture cards indicating ‘toilet’ or use gestures to indicate that they want to use the toilet.
4. Upon noticing any sign, take them to the toilet, by simply saying “Oh! You need to go to the toilet.” Do not ask too many questions

• In case there are no signs of self-initiation, extend the time between the toilet trips gradually. This will give them a chance for self-initiation. 
• For example, if the child is on a 2 hour interval of being taken to the toilet, increase this time by 5 mins, 10 mins and so on.
• By doing this, we are encouraging the child to self-initiate trips to the toilet. Pay attention to the smallest sign or signal that the child may need to use the toilet and take them. 
• Reinforce a successful trip to the toilet.

Have patience

Remember, patience is a virtue when it comes to teaching new skills to our children. Self-initiation is not a step-by-step process like trip training but is more of a trial and error. Parents have to create opportunities for the child to self-initiate and reinforce when they do. 

How do I fade reinforcement 

Once the child gets more regular with using the toilet, the use of reinforcements should fade out very gradually and in a systematic fashion.

1. Start by having a token system or reward chart in place that will be used as a reinforcement instead of a toy or treat for the child.
2. The token system can be introduced by offering the child’s favourite thing in exchange of the star/token instead of directly offering the toy as a reinforcer.
3. For example, when the child goes to the toilet, instead of offering him his favourite toy as a reinforcement, reward him with a star on his reward chart. Help the child understand that he can get his toy in exchange for a fixed number of stars. 
4. Remember, initially, the number of stars should be less, so that the child does not lose interest.
5. For example, the child can get his favourite toy after 2 stars (which means 2 successful toilet trips). So, after the first successful toilet trip, offer him a star. The second time the child uses the toilet successfully, reward him another star.
6. This time promptly offer him his toy in exchange for the 2 stars on his reward chart
7. The number of stars can be gradually increased, only when the child gets confident and is still encouraged to use the toilet successfully.
8. Gradually, it can be observed that the child no longer needs a reinforcer and can remain dry and use the toilet successfully throughout the day.

As with most skills taught to children, toilet training needs a lot of patience. There will be accidents for which both the parents and children should not be discouraged. Successful trips to the toilet should be encouraged, motivating the child to develop this very important skill.

The article is based on the video on toilet training created by Sethu Centre. This video is part of the Ready Steady Potty series. In this video on self-initiating for toilet training, the presenter will guide you through the process of training your child to independently move towards the toilet when they need to go. Learning to use the toilet is an important milestone in our children’s life. It gives a sense of independence throughout their life. There are certain strategies in which you can train your child to use the toilet.

The session is divided into 5 parts, Getting ready for toilet training, Recording, Trip Training, Self Initiation, and Poop Training. These will help parents learn the systematic steps involved in their child’s toilet training.

After pursuing her training as a special educator, the presenter, Madhura Manerikar was compelled to devote her time and teaching skills to children with special needs. During her work experience at Sethu, she developed an interest in teaching children with autism.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or what’s app us. Our counselors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this article is for information purposes only.