Let’s Talk Constipation in Kids…
It’s not a fun conversation, but we all know parenting isn’t always fun. And potty training, poop talk, and understanding constipation in kids is an important part of the job. So today I’m partnering with B-Inspired Mama sponsor, Pedia-Lax, to help you with that. Let’s talk about constipation in kids…
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Pedia-Lax. The opinions and text are all mine. Please see my disclosure policy.
How To Know When Your Child is Constipated?
Knowing when kids are constipated can be tricky – especially when they are so young that they cannot verbalize their symptoms. Pedia-Lax, the only line of products for relief of constipation made just for kids, has created a valuable resource for education on kids constipation. On their website, Pedia-Lax lists common signs of constipation in children:
- Less than three bowel movements a week
- Hard stools that are difficult to pass
- Cramps, stomachaches or nausea
- Rectal bleeding (this symptom might be a sign of a serious condition, consult your pediatrician)
- Urinary incontinence, frequent urination or bed-wetting (these symptoms might be signs of a serious condition, consult your pediatrician)
- Soiling (often confused with diarrhea)
- Changes in behavior such as a decrease in appetite or crankiness
How to Help Prevent and Treat Constipation in Kids
- Make Sure Your Child is Getting Enough Fiber & Fluids
- Keep Track of Bowel Movements – Pedia-Lax offers a free printable “Poop Journal” and explanation of types of stool on their constipation education website that can help with this.
- Encourage Regular Bathroom Trips – Constipation can occur when kids “hold it” too long. Set a timer during potty training to remind kids to try more often. And remember to remind older kids, too, that it’s not good to “hold it” too long.
- Talk Openly About Bathroom Habits – Some kids find using the bathroom and talking about it embarrassing. Make sure you stay neutral or even positive when discussing bathroom habits with your child so she feels comfortable with it, too.
- Give Lots of Praise – In their article, No More Potty Problems!, Scholastic.com explains: “Praise, praise, and praise some more. Just as you do during potty training, heap praise and congratulations on a child who successfully poops, despite her apprehension. The more pain-free reps you can stack up, the less the fear.” And don’t forget: praise is important when children try, but are unsuccessful, too!
- Consult With Your Physician – If you suspect your child may be suffering from constipation for the first time, consult your physician. Sometimes constipation can be from illness or even certain medications. Your child’s physician can help to rule either of these out.
Try Pedia-Lax to Relieve Kids Constipation
Gone are the days of trying to figure out the correct kids’ dose of an adult constipation product; Pedia-Lax is the only constipation product made especially for kids – ages 2 through 11. Pedia-Lax oral and rectal laxatives work fast – in just minutes to hours depending on the product – which is always important when we have uncomfortable or hurting kiddos. Plus, pediatricians recommend it to safely, effectively and quickly treat pediatric constipation. Learn more about Pedia-Lax products and constipation in kids:
- About Pedia-Lax Products
- Constipation Education Resource
- Read No More Potty Problems at Scholastic.com
How do you handle constipation in kids? Join the conversation in the comments below!
More Parenting Resources from B-Inspired Mama:
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Pedia-Lax. The opinions and text are all mine.
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