A recent video from Jharkhand’s Baidyanath Dham has triggered widespread debate among netizens. In the now-viral clip, a mother is seen casually making her child urinate from a bridge, which falls directly on the bypassers below. Many criticised the mother’s actions, and noted that urgency should never come at the cost of safety. On the other hand, the incident also highlighted a big parenting struggle many parents go through, and that is handling a child’s urgent needs in public. Parents must understand that children’s urgent needs are unpredictable, but the response must always be thoughtful and safe. Here are five practical ways on how parents can handle such situations better:
Make sure to carry an emergency kit
A little preparation can go a long way, especially when you’re travelling or on an outing with children. Keep essentials like diapers, wipes, and tissues, and disposable bags. This not only helps manage the situation quickly but also ensures hygiene is maintained.
Plan ahead before stepping out
Parents should ensure that their child uses the restroom before stepping out of the house, or even before entering places where restrooms are not available. Even if the child says they don’t feel the urge to go, parents should make sure they make one round. This small habit can significantly reduce the chances of urgency later.
Watch for non-verbal signs
Children don’t always express their needs clearly, especially when they are shy. However, there are signs of them feeling discomfort. When children feel the need to use the restroom, they often fidget, cross their legs or even hold themselves.
Encourage children to communicate their needs
Children often wait until the last moment; when things become unbearable for them. Encourage children to speak up as soon as they feel the urge. Teaching them to communicate their feelings isn’t only about bathroom needs, it also helps them become more aware of their emotions. Also, when a child knows how to communicate, they turn out to be more confident individuals, and also understand their responsibility.
The role of awareness in parenting
No parent can predict an awkward situation, but what makes the difference is a parent’s choice to be aware. When parents are alert, calm, and responsive, they not only handle situations better but also model thoughtful behaviour for their children. Over time, this builds a child’s own sense of responsibility, empathy, and social awareness.
Why parents should teach children responsibility early
Teaching children responsibility from an early age lays the foundation for how they behave in public and also in private spaces. When children learn to understand their needs and communicate them on time, they become mindful. Small habits shape their sense of accountability. And most importantly, when children learn independence, they build independence and confidence.