Slow Transit Constipation (STC)

Strategies for Schools / Teachers

1. Overview of strategies for schools.

When the children go to school, soiling and the associated smell, can lead to isolation and they may be ostracised by their peers. Name-calling and exclusion are frequent and children can feel despair and defeat as a consequence. School refusal by the child may be the first hint of these issues. The teachers’ attitude is very powerful in shaping that of other students particularly in the early primary years. Teachers are well placed to assist the child in establishing friendships and status amongst their peers.

The school may need to provide practical support. There may be a need for facilities such as easy access to a private toilet, lockers for spare clothes and shower. There may also be a need for assistance from a staff member with a child soils.

School attendance can be further reduced by symptoms, the need for hospitalisation and appointments. This can act to reduce friendships and peer involvement even more. To minimise this children should be encouraged to participate fully in school life including camps, excursions and sporting activities.

Some children may miss considerable schooling or be regularly unwell at school so it is important that they have access to the services available for children with chronic illnesses or disabilities if this is appropriate.

Link(s) to other useful online resources for schools on
strategies in responding to a child/young person with this condition

Further information can be found at the PCAA website www.pcaa.org.au