When a toddler is constipated, she will have difficulty passing stools, and the stools will be hard and dry and may have blood on the outside. Not passing stools often doesn't necessarily mean your toddler is constipated, since it is the consistency of the stool that determines whether a child is constipated. Frequency varies greatly from child to child.
Dietary Causes
Children who do not consume either enough liquids or enough fiber may become constipated. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and speeds up the stool's passage through the intestines, and water keeps the stool from being hard, since fiber absorbs water. Sufficient amounts of both water and fiber are needed to prevent constipation. Eating too many dairy products, bananas or cooked carrots can also cause constipation.
Dietary Treatments
To help with constipation, give your toddler more fluids, at least two to three glasses per day. Increase the amount of fiber-rich foods he eats. Raw fruits and vegetables with the peels on, beans and whole grains are all good sources of fiber. Limit dairy products, bananas and cooked carrots.
Other Causes
In some cases, constipation is not due to diet, but due to other causes including certain medications or the child withholding stools. Toddlers who are afraid of potty training or not ready for potty training may try to hold in their stools. Children who experience a painful bowel movement may also do this, since they may be afraid the next bowel movement will hurt.
Considerations
Try dietary treatments first, and if this doesn't work you may want to take your child to his doctor. Stool softeners, laxatives or enemas may be necessary, but don't try these without speaking to your child's doctor first. You may want to hold off on potty training if your child has problems with constipation due to fears about using the toilet.
