
Neurodivergent and Neurotypical children are learning new skills every single day every day, how to eat, drink, play, read, write, follow instructions, and so much more. Children don`t just learn the things we can see, they also learn things we cant see, like recognising when they are thirsty, or hungry or when their bladder or bowel is full and its time to use the toilet to wee or poo.
For some children, these internal signals are harder to recognise. These skills don`t have an age limit, they develop and grow at different times for each child, because every child is unique.
When a child needs to use the toilet at school, many different factors can influence whether they are able to notice the signs and access the toilet in time. Sometimes the body`s messages take longer to get through, which can lead to wee or poo accidents during the school day or with holding and experiencing toileting accidents on the way home from school or later in the evening.
Research shows 1 in 4 children starting school rely on nappies or pull ups due to accidents and 1 in 12 children experience bladder or bowel difficulties. These challenges can affect a child`s ability to recognise when they need to use the toilet, leading to more accidents and difficulties concentrating in class and a knock on effect on a childs wellbeing, regulation, confidence and learning.
Sadly, some schools prevent children from using the toilet, saying "No!" when a child asks, or even locking toilets during lesson time. Only enabling access during break and lunch times. This can lead to distressing incidences for children who need urgent access.
Every child deserves the right to use the toilet when they need to.
The Time To Go! School Toilet Campaign is here to raise awareness and share support for children in schools, helping create environments where toileting is safe, supported and stress free.
Download the Time To Go! School Toilet Campaign Pack TODAY! and start helping your child, as the pack shares how to get involved with the campaign and lots of useful resources and top tips to help your child thrive with their toileting in school.