Bathroom problems in school-age children can be a source of frustration for any parent. Toilet-trained kids are still susceptible to a variety of problems, ranging from stool soiling to urinary incontinence. Often these problems go away with time, but there are number of ways to address them to make trips to the bathroom a more pleasant experience for all.
Causes
Kids encounter bathroom problems for a variety of reasons. Constipation can cause stool soiling, a condition in which a small amount of feces is leaked into the underwear. Bowel movements become difficult with constipation, and many kids often try to hold their stool. Likewise, stress can produce constipation or diarrhea. Bladder control issues may similarly exacerbate bathroom problems.
Understanding
Helping kids understand that bathroom problems happen on occasion is an important prerequisite to overcoming those problems. Peeing or pooping in underwear can be embarrassing, but it's important for kids to clearly understand that it's safer to get an adult's help when an accident happens rather than hiding from embarrassment.
Unfamiliar Bathrooms
A bathroom in a new or unfamiliar place can be a prime location for an accident, especially for kids who are still not quite comfortable going to the bathroom in general. A child might wait too late to go if he is in an unfamiliar place. If this is the case, be sure to tell your child where the bathroom is located and reassure him that you won't be mad if he has an accident.
Timer
Kids who suffer from daytime bladder control problems can benefit from a programmable wristwatch that reminds them to go to the bathroom. Utilizing a timer is an effective form of behavior modification that teaches kids to stick to a bathroom routine to avoid accidents. In addition, modifying your child's drinking habits can greatly reduce the chance for bathroom problems.
Bed-wetting
Bed-wetting is a problem that children sometimes encounter well into their teenage years, although it's not generally indicative of a larger problem. For younger children, nighttime diapers or pull-ups are an effective tool to avoid accidents. Older children can gain a sense of independence by learning how to wash their own soiled sheets in a washing machine. Having an extra pair of clothes when away from home is another safeguard against nighttime bathroom problems.
Member Comments