Bladder and bowel

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Constipation

For information on constipation in children please visit Constipation in children on NHS.uk.

Soiling

Daytime wetting

Encourage your child to drink more throughout the day – at least 1.2 litres for 4-8 year olds, and 1.5 litres for those aged 9 and over

Avoid giving fizzy or caffeinated drinks to your child. Hot chocolate, orange and blackcurrant drinks have also been shown to irritate the bladder. Water is the best option for your child

Water bottles with time trackers and wobble watches can be helpful to remind your child to use the toilet and to drink throughout the day, as well as maintaining some independence

Encourage your child to use the toilet regularly throughout the day. You may need to liaise with his/ her school to ensure that your child can access the toilet

Your child may benefit from ‘double voiding’ – this is when they use the toilet, and when they think they are finished, they should count to 10 and try again to ensure they are fully emptying their bladder

Ensure your child has a change of clothing when at school or out and about in case of accidents

Don’t punish your child if they do wet during the day – it is more important to praise for when they do follow these steps

Please access ERIC via www.eric.org.uk for further advice and support.

Please access via www.bbuk.org.uk/children-young-people

Or contact our service for more support.

Night time wetting

  • Encourage your child to drink more throughout the day – at least 1.2 litres for 4-8 year olds, and 1.5 litres for those aged 9 and over
  • Avoid giving fizzy or caffeinated drinks to your child. Hot chocolate, orange and blackcurrant drinks have also been shown to irritate the bladder. Water is the best option for your child
  • Water bottles with time trackers and wobble watches can be helpful to remind your child to use the toilet and to drink throughout the day, as well as maintaining some independence
  • Encourage your child to use the toilet regularly throughout the day. You may need to liaise with his/ her school to ensure that your child can access the toilet
  • Your child may benefit from ‘double voiding’ – this is when they use the toilet, and when they think they are finished, they should count to 10 and try again to ensure they are fully emptying their bladder
  • Avoid the use of nappies or pull ups for a minimum of two consecutive nights
  • Ensure your child’s mattress is fully protected
  • Lifting is not recommended, however if you wish to do this, you must make sure that you vary the time and that your child is awake and walked to the toilet
  • Ensure the bathroom is accessible at night time
  • Ensure your child has a change of clothing when at school or out and about in case of accidents
  • Remember to reward your child for following these steps, even if they do not manage to have a dry night.

Please access ERIC via www.eric.org.uk for further advice and support.

Please access via www.bbuk.org.uk/children-young-people.

Or contact our service for more support.

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School Health Service

Speak to the team for more information.

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