Experts Come in All Forms: Supporting Children with Active Toileting
When you picture an expert, who comes to mind? Perhaps a clinician, a researcher, or an educator? At Qufora, we’ve learned that expertise comes in many forms—and often from unexpected sources. From seasoned healthcare professionals to young people with lived experience, we are continually inspired by the breadth of insight within our community.
As part of our continued commitment to supporting families and clinicians on the journey of rectal irrigation, we are proud to introduce our new Active Toileting video resource. This initiative is a collaboration between Qufora and Andrea Jordan, Lead Clinical Nurse Specialist in Paediatric Surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, who generously contributed her clinical expertise and content to shape the resource. It also features Hannah, a remarkable young Qufora user who has documented her irrigation journey in a book created to help other children.
What Is Active Toileting?
Active toileting refers to a range of simple, engaging techniques that encourage participation in the process of bowel emptying. These techniques are designed to make toileting more accessible, less intimidating, and maybe even a little fun. The video introduces methods such as moo-ing, blowing bubbles, playing a mouth organ, and inflating balloons – all of which can stimulate abdominal muscles and promote more effective bowel movements. Additionally, the video underscores the importance of hydration and playing and staying active in supporting regular bowel function.
Why This Resource Matters
Starting a child on transanal irrigation (TAI) can have a profound impact. The initial learning curve involves not only mastering the practical steps of irrigation but also understanding how to support a child emotionally and developmentally during this transition. Designed to be short, engaging, and easy to understand, the video can be used in clinical settings or shared digitally for families to watch at home. It offers practical tips while also highlighting the voices of those with direct experience.
Our hope is that this resource will empower healthcare professionals and caregivers alike, offering them approachable tools to support children in developing positive, proactive toileting habits. Most importantly, it reminds us that everyone, regardless of age, can be an expert when it comes to sharing knowledge, insight, and support.
To watch Hannah in action, check out our active toileting video here
