Abstract

Constipation, Withholding and Your Child is a positive, accessible guide to dealing with the common problems of stool withholding, soiling and wetting in young children. It gives insight into the perspectives of both children and parents, enabling a clear understanding of the issue.

Using friendly and informal language, the book examines the different causes of toileting problems, including the arrival of siblings and difficulties at school, and provides practical techniques and strategies to help children overcome these problems. It emphasises the importance of diet and offers advice on how to make using the toilet less frightening, the benefits of keeping a stool diary chart, and what laxatives and medications to use in different circumstances. It provides tips on how to tackle inappropriate lavatorial behaviour sensitively and addresses the issues particular to children with special needs.

This book is a reassuring, informative and non-patronising guide to help children overcome toileting problems. It is useful for parents and all professionals who work with children.

`Constipation, Withholding and Your Child is easy to read and introduces humour into a taboo subject while acknowledging the complexity of the problem. Cohn talks in plain language that can easily be understood by parents, health care professionals and older children. It uses a relaxed storybook style that encourages children to discover their own solutions...This book covers all aspects of the condition. It is an excellent resource for all those involved in the care of children with constipation and soiling. It will also serve as a helpful guide for parents, many of whom feel they have been left to cope alone.

It could also inspire parents to continue with a management programme, knowing there is light at the end of the tunnel if they persist with the medication, the toilet routine and treatment plan.'

Children Now
`This book would be particularly useful for parents but is also interesting for professionals and especially those dealing with babies and young children.'
National Childminding Association
Anthony Cohn is a Consultant Paediatrician working in Hertfordshire and London. He trained at a number of major London Hospitals, including Great Ormond Street, and has spent six years developing a treatment service to help children with toileting problems. He is interested in conditions that have strong physical, psychological and social components. He is married and has triplet boys.