Sue Larkey Podcast - Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education SLP 324: Understanding Interoception: Why Neurodiverse Children Need a Different Approach
Dec 1, 2025
Discover the importance of toilet timing over traditional training for neurodiverse children. Dive into interoception issues that delay bladder awareness and learn practical tips to establish effective routines. Explore the significance of sensory awareness around bathroom fears and the advantages of using visuals to enhance motivation. Find out how to create comfort throughout the process and the best ways to gradually fade rewards. Plus, get insights on managing nighttime routines and addressing sensory sensitivities effectively.
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Interoception Explains Late Toilet Signals
- Neurodiverse children often lack interoception and don't feel bladder or bowel signals until it's too late.
- Toilet timing (set routines) works better than traditional toilet training for these children.
Jack's Rapid First-Day Breakthrough
- Jack shared that after listening to Sue's podcast she removed nappies and used jocks, M&Ms and Paddington to toilet time her nonverbal son.
- He had multiple daytime accidents on day one but began using the toilet by afternoon and did multiple wees on day one.
Reward Use Then Gradual Fading
- Jack used M&Ms for wees and KitKats for poos as motivators and removed visible rewards after a few days.
- Within about a week she felt confident enough to go out, though she experienced emotional ups and downs during the process.
