Parenting a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, and one of the most difficult behaviors families may encounter is scatolia or the smearing or handling of feces. 

While it can feel overwhelming, embarrassing, and even upsetting, it’s important to remember that scatolia is not uncommon among children with autism and other developmental differences. More importantly, with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, it can be managed.

What Is Scatolia?

Scatolia refers to the act of smearing, touching, or playing with feces. While it may seem shocking, for many children it is less about “misbehavior” and more about expressing needs or exploring their environment.

Some of the most common reasons children engage in scatolia include:

• Sensory exploration – Feces has a unique texture and smell, which can appeal to children seeking sensory input.
• Communication difficulties – When a child cannot express discomfort, frustration, or boredom, behaviors like scatolia may appear.
• Medical issues – Digestive discomfort, constipation, or other gastrointestinal problems can trigger this behavior.
• Attention-seeking – Children quickly notice the strong reaction scatolia provokes, which may reinforce the behavior.

Understanding why scatolia occurs is the first step in addressing it.

Immediate Steps When Scatolia Happens

Although scatolia can be stressful, how you respond in the moment makes a big difference:

1. Stay calm. Avoid reacting with anger or disgust, as strong reactions may unintentionally reinforce the behavior.
2. Prioritize hygiene. Safely clean your child and the environment using gloves and disinfectants.
3. Make your child comfortable. Gently guide them into fresh clothing and reassure them.
4. Take notes. Write down when and where the behavior occurred, along with any triggers. This can help identify patterns.

Preventive Strategies at Home

Preventing scatolia requires a proactive approach. Here are strategies that can help reduce the likelihood of it happening:

1. Rule Out Medical Concerns

Schedule a check-up with your child’s pediatrician or gastroenterologist. Sometimes, scatolia is linked to constipation, digestive discomfort, or infections.

2. Adjust the Environment

• Dress your child in clothing that limits access, like onesies or pajamas worn backward.
• Keep the bathroom routine consistent and predictable.
• Supervise closely during times scatolia is more likely to occur (such as bedtime or after meals).

3. Provide Sensory Alternatives

Children often seek out textures. Offer safe, engaging options such as:

• Playdough or clay
• Finger paints
• Sensory bins with rice, beans, or sand
• Slime or putty

By redirecting your child’s need for sensory input, you give them healthier ways to explore.

4. Use Reinforcement and Visual Supports

• Praise or reward your child when they use the toilet appropriately.
• Introduce visual schedules, social stories, or picture cues to reinforce proper bathroom behavior.

ABA Approaches for Scatolia

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) offers evidence-based strategies to address scatolia in a structured, compassionate way. Here’s how:

• Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): A therapist will determine the root cause of the behavior whether it’s sensory, communication, or attention-driven.
• Replacement behaviors: If scatolia provides sensory stimulation, therapists may introduce safe sensory alternatives. If it’s communication-based, therapists will teach new ways to express needs.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward systems encourage children to use the bathroom appropriately and engage in alternative behaviors.
• Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP): A personalized plan ensures strategies are consistent across home, therapy, and school.

When to Seek Professional Help

Scatolia can feel isolating, but you don’t have to manage it alone. Professional help may be necessary if:

• The behavior persists despite home strategies.
• It significantly disrupts daily routines or family life.
• Your child seems distressed, in pain, or struggles with constipation or digestive issues.

Maryland ABA therapists, occupational therapists, and medical providers can work together to create a plan that addresses both the behavior and its underlying causes.

Supporting Yourself as a Parent

It’s important to acknowledge the emotional impact scatolia has on caregivers. Feelings of embarrassment, frustration, or exhaustion are completely normal. Remember:

• You are not alone—many families face this challenge.
• Progress takes time, and small steps forward are worth celebrating.
• Support from professionals and parent networks can make the journey less overwhelming.

Conclusion

Dealing with scatolia is difficult, but with understanding, consistency, and the right supports, it can be managed effectively. By addressing the underlying cause and teaching alternative skills, children can move past this behavior.

At Intellaplay ABA, an ABA therapy in Maryland, we specialize in helping families navigate challenges like scatolia with patience, compassion, and evidence-based care. If your family is struggling with this behavior, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your child and family.