Poo Guide for Toddlers

Keeping an eye on your toddler’s bowel movements might not be the most glamorous part of parenting, but it’s an important one. The colour, consistency, and frequency of your little one’s poop can offer helpful clues about their digestive health and overall wellbeing.

Why Is Toddler Gut Health Important?

A healthy gut is key for toddlers. It helps them absorb nutrients, supports their immune system, and plays a big part in their growth and development. A balanced diet filled with fibre-rich foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and lots of water helps keep things moving smoothly.

What Does Healthy Toddler Poop Look Like?

While every toddler is different, there are a few signs that suggest their digestion is on track:

• Colour: Shades of brown, yellow, or green are generally considered normal.
  
  

• Consistency: Poop should be soft and formed—think the shape and feel of a sausage or snake.
  
  

• Frequency: This can vary from a few times a day to every other day, depending on your child’s diet and individual routine.
  
  

Toddler Poop Colours and Textures: What They Could Mean

Even with a healthy routine, you’ll likely notice a few changes from time to time. Here’s what some common variations might tell you:

Hard or Pellet-Like Poop
This usually means constipation. It can happen when your toddler isn’t getting enough fibre, water, or physical activity. Try offering more whole fruits, vegetables, and water throughout the day, and don’t forget to keep them moving with active play.

Loose or Watery Poop
Runny poop might follow a change in diet, a tummy bug, or even a food intolerance. If it lasts more than a couple of days or comes with other symptoms like a fever, it’s a good idea to check in with your paediatrician.

Green Poop
Green is often harmless. It can show up after eating green vegetables or foods with food colouring. Sometimes, it just means bile is moving quickly through their system. If green poop comes with diarrhoea or tummy discomfort, it’s worth speaking to a doctor.

Yellow Poop
Yellow stools are common, especially if your toddler eats lots of fruits and veggies. But very pale yellow poop could signal a liver issue. If you see this often, it’s best to seek medical advice.

Red Poop
Bright red poop can sometimes come from foods like beetroot, tomato soup, or red drinks. But if it’s not food-related, it could point to bleeding in the lower digestive tract. Always get medical advice just to be safe.

White or Grey Poop
This isn’t typical and may indicate a liver or pancreas problem. If your toddler’s poop looks pale, chalky, or clay-coloured more than once, make sure to call your doctor.

Black Poop
Black stools can be caused by certain foods (like blueberries or liquorice) or supplements (like iron). But if your toddler hasn’t eaten anything unusual, it may suggest bleeding in the digestive tract. Speak to a healthcare professional right away.

Mucus in Poop
A little mucus here and there can be normal. But if it becomes more frequent or is accompanied by diarrhoea or other symptoms, it could signal an infection or intolerance.

Undigested Food in Poop
It’s not uncommon to spot bits of food, especially things like corn or peas, in toddler poop. If it happens now and then, it’s usually fine. But if it’s a regular thing, or your child isn’t gaining weight well, it’s best to get it checked out.

How to Support Healthy Digestion in Toddlers

Good digestion starts with a few healthy habits. Try these tips to help things along:

• Offer a balanced diet: Include lots of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins.
  
  

• Keep them hydrated: Encourage regular water breaks throughout the day.
  
  

• Get them moving: Physical activity helps keep digestion regular.
  
  

• Build a routine: Consistent meal and toilet times help the body find its rhythm.
  
  

When to Call the Doctor

While some stool changes are normal, reach out to a healthcare professional if you notice:

• Ongoing changes in stool colour or texture
  
  

• Signs of dehydration, like dry mouth, fewer wet nappies, or no tears when crying
  
  

• Blood in the stool or black, tarry poop
  
  

• Other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or tummy pain