Parents often wonder how new places and routines affect a child’s social growth. In some cases a youngster may hesitate to use school toilets or avoid them altogether. This is a concern highlighted by Domestos brand experts in discussions with socialbites.ca.
Experts note that adapting to school rules can be challenging for a child. For instance, requiring permission from a teacher before using the toilet can feel embarrassing because the moment may happen in front of classmates. The resulting stress can distract a student and interfere with learning. The insights reference a study conducted by the Moscow State University of Psychology and Education.
Domestos research shows that about 45 percent of Russian schoolchildren try to endure bathroom trips until they get home. Feeling self conscious about a shared facility or running out of hygiene products can heighten discomfort and avoidance.
The issue is not only about privacy. An unpleasant odor and the lack of doors or latches in some stalls can intensify the reluctance to go. This may be linked to deeper reasons such as smoking or efforts to prevent cheating. When privacy is scarce during a delicate moment, anxiety grows and children may begin associating bathrooms with awkwardness and avoidance. This emotional response can shape behavior in lasting ways.
Experts warn that a child’s confidence and trust in others may be damaged as they fear being watched or judged during bathroom visits. The ripple effects extend beyond the moment, influencing social interactions and self-esteem in school settings.
There are potential physical health implications as well. Some children swallow their urge to use the toilet and drink less water, which can lead to dehydration or other issues. A new pattern can emerge where waiting until returning home becomes the standard practice, and tolerance becomes a norm that carries into adolescence.
To reduce fear and build comfort, it helps when parents and teachers address the issue openly with the child. Communication should focus on hygiene and personal boundaries. Children should understand the importance of washing their hands regardless of the toilet’s cleanliness. If a child tends to hurry away from the bathroom, offering reassurance and a small toolkit of personal items can help. Personal products like disinfectant wipes or wet wipes may ease the process and support healthy habits.
In these conversations, adults can work together to create a supportive environment where using the school bathroom does not feel like a punishment or a source of embarrassment. The goal is to normalize the routine and reinforce that personal care matters in all spaces, including school restrooms. By fostering calm, clear guidelines and consistent routines, the burden on the child can lessen over time.
Experts emphasize that starting conversations early and maintaining open lines of communication are key. Parents and teachers should listen to the child’s concerns, validate feelings, and offer practical strategies to manage the situation. Small, steady steps can lead to greater comfort and confidence in navigating daily school life. At the end of the day, the focus remains on the child’s well-being, learning, and social development in the classroom environment. This approach supports healthier habits and a more positive outlook on school routines. [Citation: Domestos study; Moscow State University of Psychology and Education findings; expert comments.]