Toilet training is an important part of any child’s life, and most often, there will be many trials and errors before they master toilet training successfully. Children with cerebral palsy usually face additional challenges, as they may not have the coordination and dexterity needed to use the toilet correctly. The good news, however, is that there are specialized toilet chairs available to help make training easier.
Most children begin toilet training anywhere between the ages of 1 to 3.
How Toilet Chairs Help Children with Cerebral Palsy
The most common issues children with cerebral palsy have when it comes to toilet training is lack of of mobility and involuntary muscles spasms, which can result in slips, falls, and other accidents. Specialized toilet chairs help in that they:
- Provide support for the head and the neck
- May come with adjustable straps to help the child sit successfully without falling off sliding off of the toilet
- Have adjustable heights as the child grows
- Portable and easy to clean
- Attachable safety rails
- Soft padding to help with comfort
How Much Do Toilet Chairs Cost?
Costs will depend upon what type of toilet chair you choose for your child. For example, a basic toilet chair can cost anywhere from $10 t0 $50. The prices increase depending on additional features and accessories. In some instances, your insurance may help offset some of the costs. It’s recommended that you consult with your physician to determine the most affordable option for your child that provides the needed accommodations.
Where Do You Get Toilet Chairs, Risers, or Safety Rails?
Generally, you can find toilet seats and accessories at a local pharmacy, or your local hospital’s pharmacy. If neither brick-and-mortar pharmacy offers what you’re looking for, online shopping at websites such as Amazon.com offers several choices. Again, your physician should able to provide you with additional information.
What If Your Child Has Other Needs?
If your child still has trouble making it to the bathroom, you may also want to consider additional options. Diapers are available, as are male, female, and unisex urinals, and bedpans. While you may not want to depend on these options all the time, they are great resources for situations when you’re out of the house and your child is out of his or her familiar environment.
Above all, it’s important to be patient with a child with cerebral palsy. If toilet problems continue even after use of assistive-devices such as toilet charges, there may be an underlying medical problem, such as urinary incontinence and/or bladder over-activity. In fact, research suggests that many children with cerebral palsy suffer from urinary and bladder problems.