Potty training special needs children

Andy cannot stand up or walk, but can sit on the toilet really well. Before I didn't see the point in trying to potty train, because Andy cannot walk himself to the toilet. However, he is keeping his diaper dry for long periods of time, and doesn't like being in the diaper, once he wets it.

He can understand a few things. If I offer him food, he will open his mouth. If I put his cup with straw in front of him, he will open his mouth. He has certain instincts I guess. So, I wondered if I sit him on the potty, will he pee in it?

Andy lately will keep his diaper very dry for three or four hours, then he will do one big pee. If I notice his diaper has been dry for a while, I have been siting him on the potty and asking him to pee. I have to talk to him and be patient and keep asking him for about ten minutes. He seems to be concentrating and thinking about it. He will then pee for me.

I cheered and clapped for him and told him, "I'm proud of you. What a big boy, you peed in the toilet". I don't think he likes having a wet diaper, and he will fuss when he wets it. So, I'm going to give this a try for the summer anyway.

My normal/typical daughter also took a while to understand what I was asking her to do, when I would put her on the potty. Sometimes, I can see Andy attempting to go, just like she would. After a while, I tell him "Good job trying to go pee-pee, now we are all done. I'll put your pull-up back on". Even if it saves me a few pull-ups/diapers a day, its worth a try.