Potty Training Sensory Kids Without Losing Your Mind (Or Your Carpet)

Tried-and-tested tips, visual tools, and survival strategies for SEN parents

This post is packed with sensory-friendly potty training tips, visual routines, and calm strategies for autistic and sensory-sensitive children.






Day 3: We both cried. The carpet didn’t make it. I am not okay.

Sound familiar? If you're potty training a sensory-sensitive or neurodivergent child, you deserve a medal, a hug, and maybe a glass of something strong. You're not alone, and no, you're not doing it wrong. Potty training sensory kids can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's cube blindfolded, in the dark, with one hand tied behind your back. But fear not, because I’ve got tips, tools, and a whole lot of real talk to help.

1. First things first: Are they even ready?

Sensory kids often have different developmental timelines when it comes to toilet training. Look out for signs like:

  • Staying dry for 1-2 hours

  • Showing awareness of wet/dirty nappies

  • Hiding to poo (yep, it’s a thing)

  • Fascination with flushing EVERYTHING down the loo

Not seeing these yet? Don’t panic. You’re not behind. You’re just on a different timeline.


If you’re dealing with setbacks, read: Potty Training Regression in Autistic Kids: Why It Happens (and What to Do)

2. Set up a sensory-friendly bathroom

Think of it like a spa. (A spa where someone might wee on your slippers.)

  • Use dim lighting or a lamp instead of the big overhead light

  • Play calming music or white noise

  • Let them choose the toilet paper, wipes, or potty design (Yes, the dinosaur potty IS essential)

Add some familiar comfort items too: a squishy toy, a weighted lap pad, or a picture schedule.

3. Visuals, visuals, visuals

Sensory kids often thrive with visual support. You can:

  • Put up a Toilet Routine Chart (we have a free one linked below!)

  • Use Calm Cards for before and after potty time

  • Try a Reward Chart that isn’t just about stickers (some kids will do anything for a bubble bath, others need to press a button that lights up like a spaceship)

4. Don’t rush the flush

Toilets can be LOUD. The echo, the splash, the terrifying vortex of doom. Let them flush in their own time or not at all. You can flush for them while they cover their ears or leave the room.

5. Build routine without pressure

Instead of asking constantly (“Do you need the toilet? Now? What about now?”), try:

  • Predictable times (after meals, before bath)

  • Gentle prompts (“Let’s sit on the potty together and read a book”)

  • Role-play with dolls or toys

And if they say no? Respect that. The more they feel in control, the less power struggle there is.

6. Expect setbacks and celebrate weird wins

Potty training isn’t linear. Some days will be brilliant. Others will involve poo on the curtains. Celebrate:

  • Sitting on the potty fully clothed

  • Telling you AFTER they’ve gone (progress!)

  • Making it to the bathroom, even if not the toilet

Progress is progress, my friend.


Struggling at night? Try: Night-Time Potty Training for Autistic Kids: Calm Tips That Actually Work

7. Your toolkit (without the overwhelm)

If potty training feels overwhelming, I created a gentle, sensory-friendly Potty Training Guide & Toolkit with visual routines, calm strategies, and pressure-free support for sensory kids.
👉 View the Potty Training Guide on Amazon



8. Things I learned the hard way

  • You can clean wee out of a beanbag (eventually)

  • Bribery with chocolate buttons is fine. This is war.

  • Sometimes, you just have to reset. Try again next week. Or next month.

You are doing great. Even if the floor is soaked and your will to live is questionable.

Remember: Potty training is not a race. It’s a slow-motion, slightly chaotic crawl toward independence. And for sensory kids, it’s a HUGE ask. Be kind to them. Be kind to yourself.

And maybe invest in some carpet cleaner.


Related Posts You Might Like:

Potty Training Regression in Autistic Kids: Why it Happens (and what to do)

Night-Time Potty Training for Autistic Kids: Calm Tips That Actually Work

5 Potty Training Mistakes Parents Make (And How to Fix Them)

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Comment below your funny relatable stories!! xxx

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