How to Help a Child Who Is Constipated

Constipation, or difficult, irregular bowel movements, can be an uncomfortable problem for some babies and children as well as for adults. It's fairly easy to treat, though ' and usually doesn't require medication.

Things You'll Need

• Bran Cereal
• Fruits
• Juices
• Vegetables
• Child-safe Laxatives

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Instructions

• 1

  Add fiber to your child's diet. Bran cereals, whole-grain products and fibrous vegetables such as broccoli and beans can help to reduce constipation.

• 2

  Reduce constipating foods ' for babies, constipating foods include rice, milk, cheese, apples and carrots. For older children, many high-fat and high-sugar foods can aggravate constipation.

• 3

  Look for hidden causes. Often, extra stress can cause constipation, so try to find and reduce stressors in your child's life. Sometimes children aren't comfortable using public or school restrooms, and may try to withhold bowel movements until they get home; this can lead to constipation.

• 4

  Remind your child to go to the bathroom ' some children get so involved in playing or reading that they ignore or resist the urge to go.

• 5

  Make sure your child is not dehydrated ' drinking lots of water can help to restore regularity.

• 6

  Give your child some prunes or prune juice, but not too much. Prunes are well-known to be an effective natural laxative. A toddler may need as much as 8 oz. of prunes, juice or puree, while a baby will probably only need a tablespoon or two.

• 7

  Offer a child-safe laxative if all else fails. These are available in oral or suppository form ' ask your doctor or pharmacist for a recommendation.