It is somewhat surprising to me that some children hold their pee during the entire school day! Some children do it out of distraction and others don’t like to use public restrooms. Yet, for some, its because they are not allowed to go the the restroom when they need or they have already used their bathroom passes or tickets. Yep! Bathroom tickets are a real thing! This often results in unnecessary discomfort, urgency and even accidents! Is using the restroom a right or privilege?
Some schools prohibit or make it difficult for children to use the restroom when they are in class. Educators may argue that they are trying to limit the misuse of the privilege. Hum…what do you think? Is using the restroom a right or privilege and should teachers be allowed to limit the use of restrooms during the school day? Sure, there are some children responding to the recent “devious licks” challenge on TikTok and may be abusing their right to use the restroom. However, my concern is for children that have urologic conditions and for those who are developing one. Not having access to the restroom throughout the day can create long term bathroom habits and increases the risk for incontinence and even urinary tract infections. If we are telling our children to drink more water, then we have to let them pee!
From the teachers point of view, frequent trips to the restroom and for water breaks can be disruptive. However, you can start with a conversation and try to work with your child’s educator to find a solution that aims to help your child take good care of their bodies. You can also ask your healthcare provider to write a letter to give to their teacher or school nurse requesting support during school hours.
Improving your child’s symptoms is a team effort! Working on our child’s daytime wetting, bedwetting and constipation takes time and consistency.