(HealthDay News) -- Children are considered constipated if they have fewer than three bowel movements a week, or their stools are large, hard, and difficult to pass.
Here are suggestions from the American Academy of Family Physicians on how to help a child's constipation:
- Increase the amount of fluids and high-fiber fruits and vegetables in your child's daily diet.
- Teach your child not to wait to use the toilet. Have the child try to use the toilet for at least 10 minutes each day after a meal.
- Talk to your doctor about whether laxatives or similar medications may be appropriate in your child's case.
- Reward your child for sitting on the toilet and trying to have a bowel movement.
