Providing your child with an active lifestyle can be a fantastic gift. It is worthwhile trying to find activities that your child enjoys and that fit in with their lifestyle, mobility level and any restrictions that may come with their current bowel challenges. Daily exercise or activity can help your child’s physical and mental wellbeing. It can give them more energy, as well as making them stronger and better mentally equipped to deal with issues that might come their way.
An active lifestyle: the benefits!
Daily activity is always a good idea and regular exercise can help in many ways, both mentally and physically.
A boost to your child’s confidence
When you have a child living with a bowel dysfunction, it is always possible that this features prominently in how they define and see themselves.
Physical activity can help them better appreciate their body, learn what they are capable of and develop an identity removed from their bowel issues. Essentially, exercise can offer an escape and help reduce the hold their bowel issues have on their mental well-being
Perhaps your child is naturally competitive or discovers a passion for a particular sport. Becoming good in a particular sport will help them to feel they can conquer the world and not let their bowel issues get in the way. All changes to any exercises or exercise routines should be discussed with their healthcare provider.
Manage stress
Physical exercise is also a great stress reliver and offers the chance for your child to blow off steam. This may ultimately help your child to better manage their TAI routine.
The social side of sport
Sport and socializing often go hand in hand. If you get your child involved in sports or outdoor activities, they are likely to make new friends along the way. This can often be a great distraction from their bowel concerns and help get them back to living their best life.
What activities are right for my child?
There are plenty of sports and outdoor activities for your child to jump right into, whatever their ability. Is there a particular sport your child already enjoys? Perhaps there is a local club that they may be able to join. Ask your child what kind of sports or activities appeal to them. Would they rather participate as part of a team (e.g., soccer, baseball, or basketball) or do they want to try something 1-1 (e.g., Taekwondo, tennis, or badminton)? The only real way to know is to give it a go.
Supporting your child in their sports and activities
It is possible your child may have reservations about sport if they have bowel issues. Maybe certain activities push them outside of their comfort zone and they are worried about their continence. If that is the case, talk to your child openly about their concerns and give them reassurance about their bowel management. You can explain that TAI can provide high-volume irrigation and this is why they are able to stay continent for up to 48 hours after irrigating. All changes to their sporting routine should be discussed with their healthcare provider.
