So… why is this happening now?

Let’s start with the big one: regression is real. It can happen for lots of reasons, especially in young people with developmental differences like Down syndrome. You might have heard words like “behavioural,” “sensory,” or “emotional regulation” thrown around  and yes, they can all play a role. So can life changes, disruptions in routine, sleep challenges, or even puberty.

In one real-life story we came across, we saw a 13-year-old girl who’d been dry for years suddenly started having nighttime accidents, not just wetting, but also pooping on the bathroom floor while playing games and reciting Disney movies. Her dad described being totally at a loss. No physical issues, no daytime problems, just nightly chaos. Sound familiar?

It’s not about laziness. And it’s not your fault.

This is important. When a child starts toileting on the floor or having accidents again, especially after years of independence, it can feel like defiance or a step backwards. But this isn’t about willpower. And it’s certainly not about bad parenting.

In many cases, it’s about control or the need to feel in control. Bathroom time can be full of expectations, transitions, and overstimulation. For some teens with developmental differences, this can be the perfect storm.

And when you add nighttime routines, tired brains, and less ability to hold it in? Yep, things can get messy.

What might help (and what probably won’t)

Let’s cut to it. Yelling won’t fix it. Neither will shame, scolding, or trying to “logic” someone out of behaviour that doesn’t feel logical in the first place. We get it, it’s frustrating. But calm, consistent support will get you much further.

Here’s what might help: 

1. Structure and supervision (without the power struggle)

Create a calm, predictable routine around the bathroom, even if they’re not keen. It might mean gently supervising the process for a while, even if they used to manage alone. Yes, it’s a step back. But it’s a step towards stability, too.

⭐️ Tip: Use visual checklists or timers to keep them on track without constant verbal reminders.

2. Keep the bathroom distraction-free

If the bathroom has become a play zone, it’s okay to pull that back a little. A quiet space (no toys, no devices) can help signal that this is a different kind of time.

3. Consider sensory sensitivities

Textures, temperatures, smells, they can all throw things off. Try warmer lighting, softer toilet paper, or letting them choose their own hygiene products to regain a sense of control.

4. Reward the behaviour you want

This doesn’t mean bribery. It means positive reinforcement. A sticker chart, a favourite show, extra time doing something they love,  these can go a long way when used consistently (and tied clearly to the toileting goal).

Gear that helps — and saves your sanity

This is where the right products make a world of difference. Because while you're navigating the why, you still have to manage the now.

For overnight support

If accidents are frequent, an absorbent slip or pull-up can mean better sleep, for everyone. Look for something soft, breathable, and high-capacity. (Yes, we’re biased — but Nundies are designed exactly for this.)

For bed and room protection

Leaks don’t just happen in bed. Sometimes the floor, the rug, the furniture, all fair game. That’s why our waterproof fitted sheets, quilt covers, and underpads are designed to catch messes without drama. They’re soft, washable, and they blend in — because dignity matters, even when things get messy.

When you and your partner don’t agree…

Let’s talk real life for a sec. In many families, parents don’t always see eye to eye on how to handle regression. One wants more structure, the other wants to give more space. One’s tired of scrubbing the floor, the other’s worried about making it worse.

This is hard. But communication matters. So does shared strategy.

• Agree on the goal: Not just “no more mess,” but “helping them feel safe, supported, and independent again.”
  
  
• Tag-team if needed: One parent supervises, the other handles clean-up. Switch it up. Support each other.
  
  
• Check in often: Frustration builds in silence. Talk, even if you don’t have the answers yet.
  
  
  

Progress over perfection 

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about patience. Some days, things will go better. Some days, they won’t. But you’re showing up. You’re trying. You’re caring and that counts for so much.

And your teen? They’re not broken. They’re just navigating something different and they’re lucky to have someone in their corner.

Hang in there. You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.