Toilet Training in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

Session Description

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders often face unique challenges in toilet training due to sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and difficulty with routine transitions. This presentation aims to develop and evaluate tailored, evidence-based strategies to improve toileting independence. Interventions will combine structured routines, visual supports, individualized reinforcement, and caregiver coaching, with optional integration of assistive technologies like reminder apps and adaptive equipment. Success will be measured through toileting proficiency, reduction in accidents, and caregiver stress levels. By providing practical, individualized tools and training, this presentation seeks to enhance self-care skills, promote autonomy, and improve family quality of life. The diagnoses that will be highlighted will include spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and pediatric CVA. Alternative toileting strategies like bowel programs and catheterization will also be discussed.

You Will Learn

1. Apply evidence-based interventions by demonstrating the use of visual schedules, reinforcement systems, and adaptive equipment to support toileting independence in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
2. Analyze individual patient needs by assessing sensory, motor, and communication factors that may influence toileting performance and selecting appropriate strategies accordingly.
3. Evaluate the effectiveness of implemented toileting strategies by interpreting performance outcomes, tracking progress, and recommending modifications to optimize functional independence and caregiver support.

Presented By

Dr. Carina Siracusa, PT, DPT, EdD, PWCS, OncCS

Carina Siracusa has been a physical therapist since 2005. She started as a developmental pediatric physical therapist where she treated a variety of developmental and neurologic diagnoses. When she began to see pelvic health clients, she was able to meld both specialties into courses for treating pediatric pelvic floor disorders. She has her EdD from AT Still University and has a special interest in health literacy in pelvic health.

She currently practices physical therapy in Columbus Ohio at a large hospital based out patient center. Carina sees clients that have adult neurological diagnoses for their bowel and bladder needs. She also is board certified in oncology physical therapy and is the oncology rehabilitation coordinator for her hospital system. Carina also is an assistant professor at South College DPT where she teaches anatomy and the management of complex patients.

Carina has taught for the Academy of Pelvic Health since 2010 in the CAPP Pelvic certification series. She has served on the committee on and off since 2010 as well. She has spoken nationally and internationally at multiple conferences on the topics of neurologic and pediatric pelvic health.