As the back-to-school season creeps closer, parents are no doubt gearing up for the whirlwind of preparations. Think shopping for school supplies, buying a new backpack or lunchbox, and getting the school uniform ready to go.

However, for parents of kids with incontinence, there's an additional layer of planning involved to ensure a smooth transition.

In this guide, we'll explore practical tips to empower parents and prepare kids with incontinence, whether this be daytime wetting or bowel incontinence, for a confident return to the classroom.

Start by fostering open communication with your child about their incontinence and what their concerns or fears might be in terms of returning to school.

Create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing how they feel and what they’re worried they may face at school.

Discussing their needs openly helps build trust and confidence in children and allows parents to better address potential issues, even before they occur.

One of the key steps in preparing for back to school is speaking with teachers and other relevant school staff about your child's specific needs. Managing incontinence at school isn’t just the parent and child’s responsibility, the school is there to support you.

Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher/s before the school year starts, if you can, to discuss their level of incontinence, what they require to make them feel comfortable (scheduled/frequent bathroom breaks for example) and then develop a plan to address potential challenges that arise in the classroom and schoolyard.

You could also speak to their teacher about having a discreet incontinence aids station where your child knows they can find the products they wear or use away from their peers if required. More on which incontinence products to go for a little further down!

Consistency is key when managing incontinence. Work with your child to establish a routine that includes regular bathroom breaks. Encourage them to use the toilet before leaving for school, during breaks, and immediately after school.

By incorporating scheduled bathroom breaks into their daily routine, you’ll empower your child to take control of their situation and not feel as though they ever have to “hold on” - as this will likely lead to accidents, and could cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) or constipation.

Choosing the right incontinence products is crucial for your child's comfort and confidence. Explore different options such as pull-up pants and waterproof protectors that can be used in the classroom if necessary, and work together to find what works best for your child.

Our Magics Youth Pants are great because not only do they have 3-channel, fast-acting absorbency technology, but they are still slimline and comfortable to wear so your child won’t need to worry about them looking bulky under their uniform. Their odour-locking capability also keeps any unwanted scents at bay between changes, and even once you dispose of them.

Ensure that your child knows how to discreetly change or dispose of these products, both at home and at school.

Prepare an emergency kit that your child can keep at school in the special spot designated by them and their teacher that we mentioned earlier!

This kit should include the likes of spare comfortable clothes, wipes, and any necessary incontinence products such as those mentioned above.

Label the kit with your child's name and provide clear instructions to the teacher or school nurse on its use. Having a readily accessible kit minimises disruptions and ensures your child can manage any accidents discreetly.

Teach your child to advocate for themselves by equipping them with knowledge and tools to manage their incontinence independently. Remember, education is power!

This might mean practising scenarios where they can confidently communicate their needs to teachers or classmates, helping to reduce any risk of embarrassment.

Connect with other parents of children with incontinence to share experiences, tips, and resources. Building a support system can offer valuable insights and emotional support - for both you and your child.

Additionally, consider involving your child in support groups or activities that foster a sense of community and understanding. This can also help build their confidence in addressing their incontinence around other children.

If you need help finding a support group for you and your child, you can speak to their GP or use resources like the Continence Foundation of Australia.

Unfortunately, children with incontinence may face teasing or bullying from their classmates due to the stigma associated with this condition.

Do your best to give your child strategies to handle such situations, such as reporting incidents to teachers and seeking emotional support. You could also try and encourage empathy and understanding among classmates by organising educational sessions about incontinence with your child’s teacher.

If you need support, you can always go on the Kids Helpline website or give them a call on 1800 55 1800. They are available 24/7 for emotional support.

Maintain open communication with your child throughout the school year. Regularly check in on their mental health and address any concerns or challenges they may be facing. By staying actively involved, you will identify and address issues as soon as they arise, ensuring your child feels supported and things don’t worsen.

Preparing a child with incontinence for back-to-school involves a combination of open communication, education, and proactive planning.

By fostering a supportive environment at home and collaborating with teachers and school staff, parents can empower their children to manage their incontinence confidently and thrive at school!