If your child lives with bowel issues, it is possible that school seems like a daunting prospect. However, with the help of transanal irrigation (TAI), your child can have more control and confidence in their bowel so their education and social life can flourish. Here are some simple tips to help support your child through school as a TAI user.
Notify the school
It is always a good idea to make sure that a teacher or pastoral worker at your child’s school is aware of your child’s bowel issues. Not only will this help your child in the event of any accidents or episodes of discomfort, but it will also help to give you peace of mind. They will be better prepared to deal with an emergency if needed. You may even consider having a dedicated member of staff you agree your child can go to if they need any assistance.
A general awareness of your child’s issues will also make it easier for you if something unexpected happens at home or if you choose to perform TAI in the morning before school. There is no guarantee exactly how long each irrigation will take (on average it takes 35 minutes) so if the school is already informed, both you and your child will be less worried if you are delayed.
Making your child feel safer returning to school
If your child is worried about returning to school after starting to use TAI, you might want to consider some of these tips to help make the transition back into education as smooth as possible.
Do a trial run
It is natural for your child to have concerns about the school morning if they have bowel issues. This may be amplified if you normally irrigate in the morning. Doing a trial run of a school morning can help your child get used to the morning routine and allows you a chance to iron out any problems or consider making changes to your daily routine before you are racing for the morning bell.
Talk to a teacher or councillor
Try to talk to a teacher or councillor before your child goes back to school having now started using TAI. They are more likely to understand and be supportive if they are aware ahead of time. Extra support like increased bathroom breaks, flexibility during the day, absences, or trips to the nurse's office can all be discussed in advance of your child’s return to class.
Map out bathrooms
Your child will likely want to know where the bathrooms are before they need them. You can ask the school about their facilities and discuss this beforehand. They can also ask their teacher to sit them near the classroom door so they can quickly exit without drawing attention if needed.
Make sure your child has supplies to hand
Your child may want to have an emergency kit in their backpack or locker in the event of an accident. They may want to bring a change of clothes with them if it helps to make them feel more comfortable - just in case. However, check with your school before sending your child to school with any additional medication. It may be that this has to be stored in a nurse’s office or a special place in the classroom.
