For kids dealing with incontinence, school can feel tricky and even a bit embarrassing at times. But with the right support from parents, caregivers, and teachers, it doesn’t have to be!

That’s why we’ve put together this guide—to share practical tips and recommendations to help children manage their condition confidently and comfortably while at school.

Together, we can make sure they feel supported every step of the way.

Start with open communication

Helping a child with incontinence at school works best when parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals are all on the same page. Let the school know what’s going on—how serious the condition is, what might trigger it, and what’s been working well at home.

The more they know, the better they can support your child. Once they’re in the loop, teachers and staff can work with you to create a safe, supportive environment where your child feels understood and cared for. Teamwork really makes all the difference!

Creating a supportive environment at school

A supportive environment can make all the difference for kids with incontinence. Here’s how you can help your child feel safe and secure at school:

Keep it private

Respect your child’s privacy by keeping their condition confidential. Share information only with those directly involved in their care. Classmates shouldn’t know about it unless your child feels comfortable sharing that themselves.

Be sensitive

Encourage teachers to approach the topic with sensitivity and understanding. If classmates do become aware, having teachers promote a positive and supportive attitude can help build empathy and discourage teasing. (We’ll cover how to have these conversations later!)

Provide the right supplies

Send your child to school with essentials like extra clothes, disposable pads, wipes, and bags for soiled items. Talk to their teacher about setting up a discreet “station” or safe spot in the classroom to store these items.

Our Nundies Youth Pants are great for school-age kids!

With 3-channel absorbency superpowers and rapid drying technology, they keep your child dry and comfy while looking and feeling like regular underwear—perfect for staying discreet.

Ensure easy access

Make sure your child can easily get to the bathroom from their classroom. Schools should also keep restrooms clean, stocked with supplies, and accessible throughout the day.

With a little planning and teamwork, school can be a safe and supportive place for your child!

Creating routines and strategies

Routine is a big deal for kids—it helps reduce stress and anxiety in so many areas of their lives. That’s why setting up a clear plan for managing incontinence at school can make a huge difference. Here are some tips to create an effective routine:

Timed bathroom breaks

Help your child stick to regular bathroom breaks to reduce the chances of accidents. Work out a schedule that fits their needs and make sure they always have easy access to a bathroom during these times.

Bathroom buddy

If your child feels uneasy going to the bathroom alone, assign a trusted teacher or peer to accompany them. This buddy system can offer support and help them feel more secure.

Stay on-top of hydration and diet

Encourage your child to drink enough water throughout the day and help them understand how certain foods and drinks can affect their bladder or bowels. Parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals can work together to create a balanced diet plan that works for your child.

By setting a routine and working as a team, you can help your child feel more comfortable and confident managing their incontinence at school!

How to educate teachers and peers about incontinence

Educating teachers and peers about incontinence can make school a more inclusive and supportive space for kids. Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple breakdown to guide the process:

Classroom discussions

Open conversations about incontinence can help raise awareness, bust myths, and promote empathy among classmates. These discussions can be led by the teacher or even a health professional the school invites. Encourage students to ask questions—maybe even anonymously by writing them down and dropping them into a question box for the discussion leader to address.

Staff training

Schools can organise training sessions for teachers and staff to help them understand incontinence better. These sessions, with input from parents or caregivers, can cover signs, symptoms, how to respond appropriately, and practical ways to support the child.

Supportive policies

Parents and caregivers can collaborate with the school administration to create policies that ensure kids with incontinence are well-supported. These policies might include guidelines for handling accidents, access to resources, and peer support strategies.

A collaborative effort

Managing incontinence at school takes teamwork. When parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals work together to create a supportive environment, establish routines, and educate others, children with incontinence can feel comfortable, confident, and empowered to thrive at school.