If you have an autistic child who poops on the floor then you are not alone, this is not an uncommon issue.

In this article we try to explore why they may be engaging in this behaviour.

Pooping on the floor

Firstly I will start with a consistent caveat in that every child is different, reasons for one child may not be the same for another.

But with that said here are some possible reasons why they may be pooping on the floor;

Routine

Autistic children often thrive on routine and predictability. Changes in their routine, such as a new environment, travel, or changes in their bathroom routine, can be distressing for them.

Pooping on the floor may be a way for them to regain a sense of control or familiarity in an otherwise unpredictable world.

So as unfortunate as it may be it could be that once they had pooped on the floor once that became a new embedded routine.

Sensory issues

An autistic child’s sensory desires can manifest in some strange ways. This can include sensitivity to the texture, smell, or feel of different surfaces, including bathroom fixtures such as toilets or the sensation of using toilet paper.

An autistic child may find the sensory experience of pooping on the floor more tolerable or comforting than using a toilet.

Toilet training stress

Toilet training can be challenging for many children, including those with autism.

Some autistic children may struggle with understanding the concept of using a toilet, following bathroom routines, or experiencing anxiety or fear associated with toilet use.

As a result, they may resort to pooping on the floor as a way of coping, guaranteeing they do not have to go through the toilet experience.

Behavioural issues

Like any child, autistic children may engage in behaviours that are attention-seeking or driven by behavioral issues.

If the child receives attention or reactions from caregivers or others when they engage in this behaviour, even negative it may encourage them to continue.

Clearly this is tricky to manage if it is the case for your child but it may be beneficial to change the type of attention they receive.

Medical issues

Some autistic children may have co-occurring medical conditions, such as constipation, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal issues, that cause discomfort or pain during bowel movements.

Pooping on the floor could be a coping mechanism to deal with the discomfort they are experiencing.

Summary – Autistic child pooping on the floor

It is crucial to note that every individual with autism is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all explanation for why an autistic child may engage in this behaviour.

Understanding the child’s specific needs and working with a qualified healthcare professional or therapist who specialises in autism can help in identifying the underlying cause.

Together you can develop appropriate strategies to address the behaviour in a compassionate and supportive manner.