Thanks for checking into the Emerge Pediatric Therapy Blog! We’re back with a timely post from Sarah Evanko, MS., OTR/L, who is sharing Toileting Tips that can help make the Back to School transition a little easier.
Be sure to check out our Enrichment Programs for additional Toileting support from an Emerge Occupational Therapist.
As a pelvic floor therapist, I know that starting school is one of the most common reasons kids struggle with maintaining their successful toileting habits. The demands and stress of meeting new peers, teachers, and changes in routine can impact a child’s ability to feel comfortable when toileting. As we prepare for the transition back to school here are some general tips and tricks for the transition.
1. Go to the open house before school starts
- Discuss your child’s toileting challenges with the teacher and counselor. An early dialogue about concerns keeps all of the caregivers on the same page. Be ready to approach problem-solving as a team.
- Tour the classroom, hallways and special rooms, find the bathrooms your child will be using, explore them, and if possible make sure to use it.
- Find out the routine for toileting, and the teacher’s expectations. Can your child go as needed, is there a schedule, or do they have to ask permission.
- Ask if your child is able to bring in water bottles to their desk. Increasing fluid intake can support regular bowel movements and frequent voids.
2. Encourage your child to attempt to sit on the toilet when they feel the urge to go. Ignoring body signals can lead to further complications with urge recognition and constipation.
3. When your child comes home from school make sure they have time to relax. Give them time to have a snack and a drink then encourage them to sit on a the toilet for 3 minutes
4. Check in with your child about their toileting at school early. As open end questions without judgement about their comfortability with using the toilet at school.
5. Be patient with yourself and your child. Toileting can be a challenge when a child does not feel consistently calm, and school can be stressful. To encourage toileting learning, adopt a growth mindset!
Seeking help from a pediatric pelvic floor therapist can help support your child and you with this transition. Introducing education, habits and exercises to support their toileting needs!
Fill out our initial inquiry form to get started! We’ll see you next time on the Emerge blog!
Blog by Sarah Evanko, MS., OTR/L
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