If your child is experiencing the discomforts of constipation, you may be wary of giving him a laxative made for adults. Before you administer medication, even over-the-counter varieties, try natural remedies. The solution may be as simple as a small dietary change or an increase in physical activity. See a physician if your child's constipation persists or if he experiences severe abdominal pain.
Diet
A diet high in junk food, simple carbohydrates and greasy fast food can cause constipation in your child. Incorporate high-fiber foods into her diet to help ease bowel movements. Replace junk snacks with chocolatey fiber bars, fresh fruits or nuts. Swap your child's white sandwich bread for whole-wheat slices. Jump-start her digestive system in the morning with a high-fiber dry cereal. Add veggies to her plate whenever possible; vegetables such as peas, carrots, corn and broccoli move swiftly through the intestines. Limit your child's soda and juice intake and replace most of her daily beverages with water, which can help flush the system and relieve constipation.
Daily Routine
Keep your child on a routine as much as possible. For a very young child, establish a daily "potty time." Encourage him to sit on the toilet until he "goes." His body needs to get used to this at roughly the same time each day. If, however, your child is still getting accustomed to this routine, watch him throughout the day for signs of "holding it." If you see such signs, take him to the toilet right away even if it is not potty time. The longer he waits, the harder and more painful the bowel movement will be. If your child makes holding it a habit, long-term constipation could result.
Activity
Constipation in children can result from insufficient daily physical activity. Encourage your child to exercise, play outside and run around as much as possible. Limit time in front of the television and computer. Regular physical activity can help your child's regularity as well as keep her risk of childhood diabetes and obesity low.
Other Remedies
Speak to your child about his constipation. Ask if he "holds it" at school because the bathrooms are dirty or he is embarrassed to go in public. Encourage your child to eat slowly and chew every bite thoroughly. Rapid food intake can overwhelm the digestive system and result in constipation. Make sure you allow sufficient time for eating before school and activities. Peppermint, passion flower or green tea can also provide gentle and natural relief for children with constipation.
