If your little one is having trouble with daytime accidents or bedwetting, a paediatric continence physiotherapist could be a really helpful support.

These physios work with children of all ages to help with things like incontinence, pelvic floor issues, and even toilet training challenges linked to developmental or neurological delays.

But when’s the right time to take your child to see one, and what actually happens at an appointment?

When Is The Best Time To See a Physio? 

Every child develops bladder and bowel control at their own pace, but it might be time to get some extra help if your child is:

• Having daytime leaks
• Struggling with faecal incontinence or soiling
• Having combined bladder and bowel issues
• Wetting the bed (nocturnal enuresis)
• Going to the bathroom often during the day
  
• Dealing with constipation
  
  

Every child is different when it comes to reaching bladder and bowel control — and that's ok! It may take longer for some kids to get the hang of things, and if you're concerned that your child might not be there yet, booking a physiotherapy appointment can make a big difference.

For children with autism or cerebral palsy—where toilet training might naturally take longer—a continence physiotherapist can provide custom guidance and gentle support along the way.

The good news? You don’t need a GP referral to see a paediatric physiotherapist. But it’s still a good idea to check in with your GP first to rule out any medical issues.

What To Expect At The First Appointment

The first session is all about getting to know your child and understand what’s been going on. The physiotherapist will:

• Ask about your child’s bladder and bowel habits, health history, and what you’ve already tried at home
• Chat with your child (if they’re old enough) to hear about their journey in a safe and supportive way
• Do a gentle, external check only—no internal exams are done on kids
  
  

From there, they’ll put together a personalised treatment plan. You may be asked to keep a bladder and bowel diary or try some simple strategies at home between visits.

💡 Tip: If you have other children, it can help to arrange care for them during the appointment so the focus stays on the child being seen.

How Long Does It Take?

The first appointment usually lasts about an hour, though this can vary between practices. If your child needs follow-up appointments, those are typically shorter, around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on their needs.

What About Costs?

Appointments for paediatric physiotherapists can also vary depending on the practice you attend and who you see. Call your practice to find out their pricing.

So, What Happens Next? 

After the first appointment, the physiotherapist will review all the info and come up with a step-by-step management plan. This might include home physiotherapy exercises, working with your child’s doctor, or even exploring other resources and reading material. 

They’ll also let you know if follow-up appointments are needed and how many sessions might be expected before reassessing your child’s progress.

You might be given some “homework” to do before the next appointment, like keeping a bladder or bowel diary, trying new routines or practicing some simple exercises.

It's Okay to Ask For Help

Bladder and bowel issues can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to face them alone. A paediatric continence physiotherapist can give your child — and you — practical tools, reassurance, and confidence to make things easier.

If you’re unsure, start by chatting with your GP or reach out to a local physiotherapy clinic to see what support is available.