Age: All Ages

Program Length: 12 Weeks

Service Hours: 2 sessions with supervised behavioral therapist (SBT) per week. All programming is overseen by a Registered Behaviour Analyst

Toilet training is a major milestone, but for some children, it can present unique challenges. Our evidence-based toilet training program is designed to support caregivers in teaching essential toileting skills in a structured and supportive way.

Our ABA team will collaborate with you to create a personalized 12-week plan, offering a combination of Supervised Behavioural Therapist (SBT) support and Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) oversight to help your child gain confidence and independence.

Toilet Training Goals May Include:

Comfort & Desensitization – Helping your child feel at ease in the washroom and on the toilet

Intensive Toilet Training – Establishing consistent toileting routines

Bowel Movement Training – Encouraging successful bowel habits

Requesting to Use the Washroom – Teaching communication strategies for washroom needs

Hygiene Skills – Handwashing, wiping, and other essential bathroom routines

Public Washroom Desensitization – Preparing for toileting outside the home

1. Is this program eligible for reimbursement under the Ontario Autism Program (OAP)?

Yes! Our Go Time! Toilet Training Program is designed to be eligible for reimbursement under the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Childhood Budget and Core Clinical Services funding. We encourage families to check their individual funding allocations and speak with their OAP coordinator to confirm reimbursement eligibility. We can provide detailed invoices with the required documentation to support your claim.

2. Who will be working with my child?

Your child will work with a Supervised Behavioural Therapist (SBT) for direct sessions and receive oversight from a Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) who will develop, adjust, and guide the intervention plan.

3. What are signs of toilet readiness?

While every child develops at their own pace, some common signs that a child may be ready to begin toilet training include:

• Staying dry for longer periods (e.g., two or more hours at a time)
• Showing discomfort with wet or soiled diapers and wanting to be changed
• Expressing interest in the toilet or imitating others’ bathroom behaviors
• Hiding to have a bowel movement or showing awareness before going
• Pulling down/up pants independently or attempting to
• Following simple instructions related to toileting
• Demonstrating an ability to sit on the toilet for short periods
• Using words, signs, or gestures to communicate when they need to go

If your child does not yet show all these signs, they still benefit from structured toilet training with individualized supports to help them build readiness and confidence.

4. What skills can my child learn through this program?

This program is individualized to meet each child's specific needs. The following are key areas that the program aims to address, but specific goals will be determined through the service plan and collaboratively developed with the family and RBA:

• Desensitization to the bathroom and sitting on the toilet
• Establishing consistent toileting routines
• Bowel movement training
• Teaching your child to request to use the washroom
• Washroom hygiene skills (wiping, flushing, handwashing, etc.)
• Desensitization to public washrooms

5. Is this program suitable for all ages?

Yes, this program is designed for children of all ages who need support with toilet training, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental challenges.

6. What if my child has already started toilet training but is struggling?

This program is flexible and can be tailored to meet your child's specific needs, whether they are just beginning toilet training or need additional support to build consistency and independence.

7. What if my child is resistant to toilet training?

Many children with ASD experience sensory sensitivities or anxiety about using the toilet. Our desensitization approach gradually introduces bathroom routines in a positive and supportive manner to help ease resistance and build comfort. However, at times, there may be significant or unexpected barriers to toilet training. In consultation with the RBA, further programming and goal areas can be developed to address these challenges and ensure an individualized approach that best supports your child’s progress.

8. How do I enroll my child in this program?

To register, email intake@creativetherapyassociates.ca with the subject heading "Toilet Training."