From homework to video games, YouTube marathons to group chats, sitting for hours scrolling or watching screens have become the norm for kids and teens.

But have you ever wondered if all that screen time could be affecting their bladder?

Let’s explore how screen time might be linked to bladder health and what kids can do to keep everything running smoothly.

What happens if kids sit for too long and too much?

Think about it: when kids are sitting for hours glued to their screens, everything in their body kind of slows down. Their posture gets slouchy, their legs get squished, and their pelvic area doesn’t get the movement it needs.  

The pelvic floor muscles - those super important muscles that help control the bladder - can become weak or tense when sitting for too long. Imagine them as a hammock that’s either too loose or stretched too tight. Neither is great, especially when it comes to avoiding leaks.

And let’s not forget, sitting a lot can make kids less likely to listen to their bladder’s, “Hey, I need a break” signals. Ever seen a kid so focused on their game or show that they’re holding their wee for way too long? Not good! Holding it in too often can confuse their bladder, and over time, it might not work as well as it should.

Why pelvic floor health matters for kids

Okay, let’s get a bit science-y (but not too much, we promise). A child’s pelvic floor muscles are like a trampoline at the bottom of their tummy, supporting important organs like the bladder, bowel, and even the uterus for girls. 

These muscles are the MVPs of bladder control, helping everything work as it should. When kids are sitting for hours, these muscles can get lazy or stiff, and that’s no good for bladder health.

Worried? Don’t be! There are fun ways to keep those muscles in tip-top shape. How about some sneaky exercises while they’re sitting? Encourage them to tighten their pelvic muscles for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this a few times while they’re watching or gaming. It’s like a secret workout for their bladder.

Screen time and hydration

Staying hydrated is super important for kids’ bladder health. But guess what? Too much screen time can mess with their water intake. If they’re busy smashing levels in a game or glued to their favourite show, they might forget to sip water. 

Dehydration can make their pee more concentrated. This can irritate their bladder and even lead to more trips to the toilet—or fewer trips but with a sense of urgency.

Pro tip: Keep a water bottle near their screen. Every time they beat a level or finish an episode, encourage them to take a sip. Their bladder will thank them!

Snacks to avoid with screen time

Chips, chocolate, fizzy drinks… sound familiar? For kids, screen time often comes with snack time, but not all snacks are bladder-friendly. Bladder-irritating foods and drinks include:

• Caffeine (yep, that’s in some soda and energy drinks!)
• Fizzy drinks
• Sugary snacks like candy
• Spicy or acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomato or chilli peppers

These can make their bladder a little grumpy, leading to more frequent or urgent trips to the toilet. Instead, encourage them to reach for snacks like sliced apples, cucumber sticks, or plain crackers. 

They’re tasty, filling, and kind to your kid’s bladder.

Encourage movement breaks

Here’s a fun challenge for kids: every hour of screen time, take a five-minute movement break. 

Stretch, dance  - anything that gets them moving. Movement keeps their blood flowing and helps their pelvic area stay strong and flexible. Plus, it’s a great excuse to show off their best dance moves. Who doesn’t love a good boogie?

And hey, if they’re gaming, why not turn it into a competition? See who can do the most star jumps or arm circles during a loading screen. The winner gets to choose the next game or show—bragging rights included!

Listen to bladder signals

The bladder is like a really polite friend. It gives kids signals when it needs attention. But if they ignore it too often, it might stop being so polite.

Holding their wee for too long or rushing to the toilet “just in case” can confuse their bladder, making it harder to know when they really need to go.

Next time their bladder calls, remind them to answer it. Regular bathroom breaks are a simple way to keep their bladder happy and healthy. 

When to get a helping hand

Sometimes, even when kids are doing all the right things, bladder issues can still pop up. If they’re noticing daytime leaks, bedwetting regression, sudden urges to urinate, or anything else unusual, encourage them to talk to a grown-up and consider seeing a doctor. 

Bladder health is super important, and there’s no shame in getting a bit of extra help when it’s needed.  

For kids managing leaks, Nundies provide a comfy, reliable solution to keep beds and bums dry so kids can just be, well… kids! 

With 3-channel absorbency superpowers, anti-leak guards, and odour-busting technology, Nundies fit discreetly under clothes and give kids the freedom to play, laugh, and learn without worry.