Is Your Kid’s Constipation Normal?

Between school drop-offs, meal prep, and keeping the chaos under control, noticing your kiddo’s constipation can feel like just another thing on your endless to-do list. Stressed-out parents ask, “Is this normal?” or “Do I need to call the doctor?” It’s tough when your child’s struggling to go, and it’s easy to brush it off or wonder if you’re overreacting.

Here’s the deal: occasional constipation happens, but if it’s a regular issue, it’s a sign your kid’s tummy might need some extra love. Many kids with constipation also deal with allergies or eczema, and busy parents might not even mention it to the pediatrician because, well, life’s hectic! But gut health is super important for your little one’s overall wellness. Let’s break it down – short, sweet, and stress-free – so you can support your kiddo naturally without adding to your overwhelm.

Disclaimer: This is for info only, not medical advice.

Constipation in Kids: Not Always “Just Normal”

Studies show that about 1 in 3 kids in the U.S. deal with constipation at some point, and it’s a common reason for doctor visits. But regular constipation – painful, hard, or infrequent poops – isn’t something to ignore. It might mean their diet or routine needs a tweak. Constipation can go along with things like allergies or eczema, since gut health affects so much of the body.

Doctors might suggest over-the-counter remedies like Miralax, but these aren’t ideal for kids (the FDA says it’s not approved for under 17 without guidance). Natural options like simple diet changes can usually help, without the stress of a prescription.

What’s a Normal Poop for Kids?

Think of your kid’s digestion like a happy creek – it should run smoothly and pretty consistently!

Here’s what’s typical:

How Often: 1 - 2 poops a day, though skipping a day is okay. Going every 2 - 3 days or more isn’t normal.

What It Looks Like: Soft, brown, formed (like a smooth log, not hard pebbles).

How It Feels: Easy to pass, no pain or straining.

If your kid’s poops are hard, rare, or painful, their tummy might be asking for help. No need to panic – just a cue to check their diet or habits.

Why Does Constipation Happen?

Constipation can come from a few simple things, like:

Diet: Too many processed snacks, not enough fruits or water.

Food Sensitivities: Dairy or gluten might bother some kids’ tummies.

Routines: Not enough playtime/active time or irregular schedules can slow things down.

Medications: Some meds can affect digestion as a side effect – check their side effects and talk to your trusted health care provider.

Ways to Support Healthy Digestion Naturally

No time for complicated fixes? These quick, natural tips can help your kid’s tummy get back on track. They’re simple enough for busy parents and gentle for kids.

1. Tweak Their Diet

Cut Back on Triggers: Dairy or gluten might slow things down. Try swapping milk for oat milk or white bread for whole-grain for a week to see if it helps. Organic is best – to avoid extra irritants.

Reintroduce Later: If things improve, you can try adding small amounts back, but keep an eye out for signs of trouble.

Tip: Keep it easy – even if you just swap one snack at a time!

2. Add Healthy Fats

Fats can help digestion flow. Try:

Coconut Oil: Mix ½ tsp into a smoothie or oatmeal.

Olive Oil: Drizzle a tiny bit on veggies or pasta.

Tip: Start small to avoid tummy upset. Our Gut Health Oil is a great option for supporting gut health! It has organic coconut and pumpkin seed oil infused with calendula and cloves.

3. Boost Fiber

Fiber keeps things moving. Easy ways to add it:

Fruits & Veggies: Offer apples, berries, or carrots.

Psyllium Husk: Add a pinch (¼ tsp for kids) to a smoothie or muffin mix.

Whole Grains: Swap chips for oatmeal or popcorn.

Tip: Go slow with fiber and add water to avoid cramps.

4. Keep Them Hydrated

Water is a digestion hero! Get your kid sipping with a fun straw or fruit slices in their water. A cooled chamomile or ginger tea can soothe, too.

Tip: Try adding our Electrolyte Powder for magnesium and potassium as well – just 3 ingredients!

5. Add Nutrients

A balanced diet helps digestion. Try:

Magnesium: Found in spinach or our Good Night Magnesium Lotion!

Minerals: try food powders in smoothies, water, sprinkled on desserts, yogurt, or applesauce!

Tip: Try our Super Foods Powder, Greens Powder, or Cocoa Calm!

6. Skip Processed Foods

Cut back on packaged snacks or non-organic foods that might stress digestion. Choose whole foods like fruit or homemade muffins – quick and kid-approved!

Tip: Check out Kate's Wholesome Real Food Recipes Cookbook

7. Get Moving

Playtime helps digestion! Try a family walk, a quick dance party, or a game of tag in your backyard. It’s fun and keeps things flowing. Bouncing really is good for the body!

8. Try Gentle Herbs

Herbs like chamomile, ginger, or fennel are traditionally used to support digestion. A sip of chamomile tea (cooled, for kids over 1) or our Adaptogenic Immunity can be a cozy addition.

Tip: Check out How to Feed Kids the Healthy Way

Constipation in kids isn’t something to stress over, but it’s worth noticing. It’s like a signal your child’s digestion needs a little support – maybe from more water, better snacks, or a bit of playtime. You don’t need to overhaul your life; small changes can make a big difference. Work with your naturopath or other trusted health provider to rule out anything serious and try these natural tips to keep your kiddo happy and healthy.

Want to learn more about constipation support? Check out: What Should I Do If I'm Constipated?