Constipation is the kind of problem that is not easy to talk about - but poop (or not pooping, in this case) is a daily topic of conversation between many parents.

You do not say if your child has a diagnosis or has been treated by a physician for constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids is important, too - the more like water, the less sugar, the better. The sugar substitute Splenda has a mild stool-loosening effect. Start-off with very little if your child has never had it before.

Other than medication and diet, whatever you can do to help your child be more active or move more. If your child has a movement disorder (like CP) I hope the therapists who work with your child can give you specific recommendations - knowing your child. If your child has little movement ability, is your child on a standing program? If you are comfortable, ask someone to teach you to mildly massage your child's abdomen.

Constipation is one of the effects of not moving mentioned in my post: Effects of Not Moving at **** Barbara, PT & OT