Bladder and Bowel/Continence Issues

Neurodiversity Hub Wirral

Getting Started

Daytime bladder problems are common in children. This is especially true for younger children after they finish potty training.

These problems can include:

  • Needing to rush to the toilet (this is called urgency)

  • Doing lots of small wees (this is called frequency)

  • Small accidents or fully wetting themselves

The ERIC website explains why urinary incontinence (wees leaking by accident) happens in children and how it can be treated:

Urinary System – How your Urinary System Work

Your child’s bowels are important for their health from birth. Their poo can tell you a lot about their body, like whether they are drinking enough water or eating enough fibre.

Research shows many people do not know how to spot common poo problems, like constipation. People may feel shy talking about poo. This can make it hard to know when something is wrong and how to get help.

The ERIC website explains what a healthy bowel is and what normal poo should look like. It also explains what can go wrong and how you can help your child’s bowels work better:

Wee, poo and you –

There are many things you can do to help keep your child’s bladder and bowels healthy.

Neurodivergent children often like routines and may find change difficult. Starting good habits early can help. You could try:

  • Setting up toileting routines. Use pictures to show each step.

  • Using role modelling and social stories to help your child understand and feel less worried about toileting.

  • Encouraging 6 to 8 cups of drink each day. Water is best for bladder health.

  • Encouraging your child to eat 5 different fruits and vegetables each day.

  • Offering a healthy breakfast with fibre, such as cereal or toast. (Do not give unprocessed bran. It can cause bloating and wind.)

  • Encouraging daily exercise.

Keep an eye on your child’s bladder and bowels. If you are worried, talk to your GP (general practitioner). Keeping a record of your child’s poo for 2 weeks can help the GP understand the problem.

Finding bladder or bowel problems early, especially in neurodivergent children, can help prevent long‑term issues.