8 Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Constipation

As parents, ensuring our kid’s health is a top priority. Now more than ever, kids are struggling with constipation, with cases occurring in up to 30% in kiddos across the world. Sensitive topics like constipation can be challenging to address, especially in younger kids. Understanding how to approach this conversation is key. Let’s review some tips on how parents can initiate this conversation with their kids in a supportive and informative manner.

Explain Constipation Using Simple Language

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult, leading to discomfort. It's crucial to explain this to your little one in a way that's relatable and not intimidating. Using simple language, you can describe it as the tummy feeling 'stuck' or 'slow.' Discuss what a regular bowel routine looks like. Emphasize that it's normal for bodies to sometimes feel slow, but there are ways to help.

• Create an Open Environment Find a relaxed moment to chat, ensuring your little one feels comfortable and not embarrassed. Be supportive and reassuring.

• Encourage Communication Let your kiddo know they can always talk to you about anything that's bothering them, including tummy troubles.

• Be Positive and Encouraging Emphasize that managing constipation is a team effort and that it's normal to face such challenges. Celebrate progress and offer praise for efforts made toward a healthier routine.

• Model Healthy Habits for Gut Health Kids often learn healthy habits by example [3]. Show them that you also prioritize healthy eating, staying hydrated, and regular exercise. This helps create a supportive environment and allows you as the parent to lead and be the role model your little ones need.

• Keep a Bowel Movement Journal For some kiddos, tracking their bowel movements on a chart or journal can be helpful. It allows them to see patterns and understand what a healthy bowel pattern should look like.

• Reduce Stress Stress can affect digestion [2]. Help your kiddo manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or engaging in calming activities they enjoy.

• Read Together Explore kid-friendly books or educational resources about digestion and the importance of healthy habits. It can make the topic more approachable and less intimidating.

References:

[1]Rajindrajith S, Devanarayana NM. Constipation in children: novel insight into epidemiology, pathophysiology and management. J Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2011 Jan;17(1):35-47. doi: 10.5056/jnm.2011.17.1.35. Epub 2011 Jan 26. PMID: 21369490; PMCID: PMC3042216.

[2] Konturek PC, Brzozowski T, Konturek SJ. Stress and the gut: pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options. J Physiol Pharmacol. 2011 Dec;62(6):591-9. PMID: 22314561.

[3] Coto J, Pulgaron ER, Graziano PA, Bagner DM, Villa M, Malik JA, Delamater AM. Parents as Role Models: Associations Between Parent and Young Children's Weight, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity in a Minority Sample. Matern Child Health J. 2019 Jul;23(7):943-950. doi: 10.1007/s10995-018-02722-z. PMID: 30656547; PMCID: PMC6555665.