A Houston parent is raising concerns about a school policy that requires elementary school students to “earn” bathroom breaks. Rebecca Johnson, a mother of two, expressed her frustration after discovering that her children must obtain passes to use the restroom, a practice she finds unreasonable. Despite having previously secured medical exemptions for her children, she found passes in her sixth grader’s binder recently. She articulated her discontent to a local news station, stating that it is unacceptable for children to need to earn the right to attend to a basic bodily function.
School District’s Defense of the Policy
The school district defends the policy, explaining that the restroom and drink coupons are intended as incentives to help students manage their time effectively and maximize instructional opportunities. While time management is undoubtedly a valuable skill, it raises questions about the appropriateness of restricting young children’s access to the bathroom. It can be challenging for them to navigate being away from home for extended periods, and imposing such limits may lead to unnecessary stress and discomfort.
The Impact on Children’s Health
As adults, we understand that our bodies do not always align with scheduled breaks. Expecting young children to adhere to such a rigid framework seems misguided. A more effective approach would involve addressing the minority of students who may misuse bathroom privileges, rather than implementing a broad policy that affects all students. Forcing children to “hold it” can lead to serious health issues, including urinary tract infections and other complications. According to a pediatric urologist, many children develop negative habits as a result of infrequent bathroom access, leading to potential long-term health consequences.
Finding a Balanced Approach
While it’s clear that some level of structure is necessary to prevent chaos in schools, punishing students before any abuse of the system occurs is unwarranted. A bathroom break should not be treated as a reward; it’s a fundamental need that should be respected and accommodated.
Additional Resources
For additional insights on family health and well-being, you may find helpful resources at News Medical and Make a Mom. If you’re interested in home insemination techniques, consider exploring our other blog post here.
Conclusion
In summary, the practice of requiring elementary students to earn bathroom breaks is problematic and can lead to adverse health outcomes. Schools should prioritize students’ basic needs while finding more constructive ways to manage bathroom access.