Constipation

If your child is not emptying their bowels at least three times a week and their stools are often hard and difficult to pass, they might suffer from constipation. Constipation is usually caused by too much milk and insufficient fibre. It could be brought on by anxiety or if your child is worried about something.

If going on the potty or to the toilet is painful, your child might hold back, which makes constipation worse. Don’t be tempted to administer a laxative, ask your doctor first. Your child’s constipation can be eased by introducing fibre in their diet, so include more fruit and veg, wholemeal bread, wholegrain cereals, baked beans, frozen peas and sweetcorn. They also need to drink more but limit milk or squash, water is best.

If all this doesn’t work try to find out if the cause is emotional. Perhaps your child is afraid of using a potty or is anxious about something else. Once you know, you can remove the anxiety and offer reassurance. If fear of the potty or the toilet is the problem, let your child come to the toilet with you to show them there is nothing to worry about and that is a natural and normal thing to do.