Children’s continence products - A guide for parents and children (view report contents)
Products for the toilet
Sitting on the loo properly
The way a child sits on the loo is very important. Ideally head, body
and feet should be well supported. Knees should be slightly higher than
the hips and trunk - and the trunk slightly leaning forward. This can
be a challenge for children with balance, spatial awareness and movement
difficulties and for children with learning disabilities. Getting it right
will depend on an assessment of your child’s needs and the right equipment.
Many continence services provide ‘seating clinics’ which include the toilet
needs of children. If your child’s physical disability is severe, a special
moulded toilet seat can be made. An occupational therapist can advise.
High street nursery retailers offer colourful seats - which fit over the
loo seat to reduce the size of the hole - and matching footstool sets
for smaller children. For information on the wide range of more robust
equipment for heavier children, contact a Disabled
Living Centre. They may be able to arrange for you and your child
to try the equipment at the centre or at home.
Toilet units with a built-in warm water spray and air drying facilities
are better for heavier and older children and help them to be more independent.
Above, pants and knickers that make going to the loo easier
On the right of the picture a sanichair; In the background, an extra loo
seat to reduce the size of the hole.
Tips
- Adjustable loo seats, backrests and footrests allow for growth..
- A loo seat with wide ledges supports the bottom.
- Safety harnesses can give extra support and independence. A child should not be left in one for a long period.
- Splash guards to deflect the urine into the pan can also keep legs apart.
- There are hoists for getting on and off the loo.
Report Contents
What’s this guide about?
What can the products do?
Where can you get help?
About the products
Products for the toilet
Alternatives to the toilet
Protecting the bed
Disposable and washable pads
Underwear for boys and girls
Specialist products
Smells and stains
How the bladder and bowel work
Useful information
