It’s normal for parents to worry if a couple of days have passed since their toddler’s bowels have moved.  But there’s no need to panic and fear the worst. Experienced parents have learned a few tricks to solve the problem using natural toddler constipation remedies.

1.  Feed dried fruits. Dried fruits like prunes or apricots will usually help soften and loosen the stool and get things flowing smoothly again. But be very cautious about the amount of dried fruit you feed your child at one time.  A little bit can go a long way, so it’s best to start slowly with even half a dried apricot or prune, then wait for a day to see if there are any results.  The last thing you want is for your toddler to go from constipation to diarrhea.

2.   Try the “4 Ps”. Some parents swear by the “4 P” fruits: pears, peaches, pineapple and prunes.  Just don’t make the mistake of thinking that any food that starts with the letter “p” works, though.  Peas and peanuts could prolong the constipation.

You can also try a little pear, prune, peach or pineapple juice for a few days.  But limit it to only about 4 ounces daily.  Again, you don’t want to overdo it and have your toddler’s body react to the opposite extreme.

3.   Feed natural fiber. Make sure your child’s diet includes plenty of natural fresh fruits and non-starchy vegetables, like green beans, broccoli, zucchini, spinach and other greens.  These not only contain lots of healthy vitamins and minerals that your child needs, but they also contain natural plant fiber that will help your toddler to have regular bowel movements.

4.   Water works wonders. Another natural approach is to make sure your toddler is drinking enough water — not juice, not milk, not soda, but water.  Dehydration can cause constipation because a lack of fluid in the system causes stools to harden in the intestine.   This makes the stools difficult and sometimes even painful to pass.

Luckily, dehydration is also one of the causes that can be easily cured by changing your toddler’s drinking habits.  Making sure he drinks enough water during the day will keep him regular.

5.   Glycerin gets things moving fast. If you’re looking for toddler constipation remedies right now because your toddler has been constipated for a few days, you try giving her a glycerin suppository.  They are faster acting than over the counter laxatives, and easier on your toddlers system in the long run. Where laxatives can reduce the body’s natural ability to easily eliminate if used too frequently, suppositories are safe and non-habit forming.  And your child will have quick relief, usually within 10 to 15 minutes.