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Whats the best way to help my son in public restrooms

Kimmie - posted on 03/09/2012 ( 1 mom has responded )

We are adopting a 5 yr old boy. When we take him into a public bathroom he screams and cries uncontrollably. We give him two choices, use the bathroom here or wait until you get home. Sometimes, he'll opt for waiting until he gets home. Other times, he has to go because he can't wait but winds up peeing all over himself because he's out of control. Then that leads to a whole other melt down of screaming and crying.

Has anyone had this problem. If so, how do you handle it? It is so frustrating because I don't know what I can do to help him.I

I am open to any suggstions

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Deidre - posted on 03/09/2012

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When I think "PUBLIC" I automatically imagine the whole outhouse thing. LOL Or the ones at the parks and sports fields. But, any of them that are at stores like Wal-Mart or Mc Donalds I don't really count those since they are indoors. Anyway, with that said: What kind of pattern do you see? How often are you out and about? I would cut back on the liquids and also make sure he goes BEFORE you leave the house. Also if possible limit the actual time away from the house. He should be able to control his bladder for up to 3 hrs without a disaster. My son to this day NEVER goes #2 anywhere else exept for home and he is almost 13! It's all about feeling safe and partly territorial. When my niece was very small I remember my sister was the QUEEN of knowing the exact location of every restroom in proximity to where they were. I always thought that was pretty cool because when travelling with kids you never know when they NEED to go. I'm so sorry he is going through this. I once read a mother kept a travel potty chair in her trunk for such occasions. It isn't really too far fetched. I mean I don't know if you guys live out in the country or a big city. It's gotta be rough if he seems to be petrified of any and ALL restrooms that are not in your home. I'm at the point now of recommending therapy sessions. We don't know how deep this goes for him. If he is adopted he also comes with a past that we aren't always privy to. He may have had some trauma and has got to get professional help in order for us to pin point what is really going on with him. It could be an onset of an Anxiety disorder. Some form of phobia? I feel so bad for him. Just give him as much love as possible. I'm giving you virtual hugs and kisses , hope you guys are able to help fix this xoxo, Deidre