Navigating the world of parenting often comes with unexpected challenges, and one that many parents encounter is childhood constipation. Seeing your little one struggle with uncomfortable bowel movements can be really tough, leaving you wondering, “What’s the best way to help them feel better?” Finding the best laxative for kids means looking for something effective yet gentle, and ideally, something they won’t put up a huge fuss about taking.

Constipation in children is quite common, often caused by picky eating, not enough fiber or fluids, holding it in, or even changes in routine. When diet adjustments and increased water intake aren’t quite enough, a gentle laxative can provide much-needed relief. But with so many options out there, how do you choose?

We’ve done the digging for you! This comprehensive guide reviews 10 top-rated laxatives designed specifically for children, helping you make an informed decision to bring comfort back to your child’s tummy. Let’s explore the options and find the best laxative for kids to suit your family’s needs.

Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Laxative for Kids

1. Senokot Kids Mixed Berry Laxative Gummies for Age 2+

When it comes to getting kids to take medicine, taste is often the biggest hurdle. Senokot Kids tackles this head-on with delicious mixed berry flavored gummies that kids have actually approved! This gentle laxative is designed to provide effective overnight relief for occasional constipation, giving parents peace of mind and helping little ones wake up feeling more comfortable. It’s a fantastic option for families looking for a convenient and tasty solution.

• Key Features:
  • Effective overnight relief for children aged 2+.
  • Kid-tested great taste (mixed berry).
  • Primary ingredient is natural senna extract.
  • HSA and FSA eligible.
  • Doctor-recommended brand for over 65 years.
• Pros:
  • Pleasant taste makes it easy for kids to take.
  • Provides predictable overnight relief.
  • Made with natural senna extract.
  • Widely trusted and recommended brand.
• Cons:
  • Results may vary by individual.
  • Requires taking at bedtime for overnight effect.
• User Impressions: Parents frequently praise these gummies for their kid-friendly taste and the reliable overnight relief they offer. Many appreciate the natural senna extract and the convenience of a chewable format.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

2. Pedia-Lax Laxative Chewable Tablets for Kids, Ages 2-11

Pedia-Lax offers a straightforward and fast-acting solution for child constipation relief with their chewable tablets. These watermelon-flavored tablets are a hit with kids, making it easier for them to get the gentle support they need. Formulated with magnesium hydroxide, they work as a saline laxative to draw water into the bowel, providing stimulant-free relief within 30 minutes to 6 hours. It’s a go-to for many parents due to its effectiveness and child-friendly design.

• Key Features:
  • Provides gentle constipation relief for kids aged 2-11.
  • Works quickly, typically within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
  • Easy-to-take watermelon flavored chewable tablets.
  • Contains magnesium hydroxide for gentle, stimulant-free relief.

  • 1 pediatrician-recommended children’s laxative brand.

  • FSA- and HSA-eligible product.
• Pros:
  • Fast-acting for quicker relief.
  • Stimulant-free formula is gentle on the system.
  • Delicious watermelon flavor appeals to children.
  • Backed by pediatrician recommendation.
• Cons:
  • May require more frequent dosing than overnight options.
  • Taste preference can vary.
• User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight the speed and gentleness of these chewables, often noting how much their children prefer the watermelon flavor compared to other options. It’s a trusted choice for occasional constipation.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

3. Fletcher’s Laxative, Root Beer, 3.25 Ounce

A classic choice that’s stood the test of time, Fletcher’s Laxative offers a unique twist with its pleasant root beer taste, making it appealing for both kids and adults. This liquid formula, made with natural senna pods, is known for being gentler on the system than senna leaves, providing effective relief from occasional constipation typically within 6 to 12 hours. It’s a great option for families who prefer a liquid solution with a familiar, comforting flavor.

• Key Features:
  • Gentle relief from occasional constipation in 6 to 12 hours.
  • Made with natural senna pods, known to be gentler than senna leaves.
  • Pleasant, classic root beer taste.
  • Effective for kids and adults alike.
• Pros:
  • Unique and appealing root beer flavor.
  • Natural senna provides reliable results.
  • Gentle on the digestive system.
  • Works predictably overnight or within a few hours.
• Cons:
  • Liquid format might be less convenient for some than chewables or gummies.
  • Taste, while popular, might not appeal to every child.
• User Impressions: Many users recall Fletcher’s from their own childhoods, trusting its consistent efficacy. The root beer flavor is a significant selling point, making administration much easier for parents.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

4. Pedia-Lax Laxative Liquid Glycerin Suppositories for Kids

For quick and targeted child constipation relief, Pedia-Lax Liquid Glycerin Suppositories are an excellent choice. Designed specifically for kids aged 2-5, these small, kid-sized suppositories work right where the problem is, providing relief usually within 15-60 minutes. They are sodium-free and won’t upset your child’s entire digestive system, making them a gentle yet highly effective option when oral medications aren’t working fast enough or are difficult to administer.

• Key Features:
  • Provides gentle constipation relief for kids aged 2-5.
  • Fast-acting, delivering relief in 15-60 minutes.
  • Small, kid-sized, sodium-free suppositories.
  • Won’t upset the entire digestive system.

  • 1 pediatrician-recommended children’s laxative brand.

  • FSA- and HSA-eligible product.
• Pros:
  • Extremely fast relief.
  • Targeted action, gentle on the overall digestive system.
  • Ideal for younger children (2-5 years).
  • Pediatrician-recommended for trusted use.
• Cons:
  • Method of administration can be less comfortable for some children and parents.
  • Not suitable for older children or long-term daily use.
• User Impressions: Parents praise these suppositories for their rapid action when other methods have failed, especially for very young children. They are often described as a “miracle worker” for acute constipation episodes.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

5. Wellements Organic Constipation Support | Safe and Gentle

Wellements Organic Constipation Support offers a wonderfully gentle, natural remedy for little ones starting at 6 months. This liquid formula combines organic prunes (a natural laxative) and chicory root fiber (a prebiotic) to help move things along without harsh ingredients. It’s perfect for parents seeking a clean, organic, and safe option for their baby’s or child’s occasional constipation, with the added benefit of a taste babies and kids approve of!

• Key Features:
  • Uses certified organic ingredients (prunes and chicory root fiber).
  • Gentle and safe for babies and children starting at 6 months.
  • Promotes regular bowel movements without harsh laxatives.
  • Easy to administer with provided dispenser.
  • USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan Certified, NSF Certified.
  • Free from parabens, artificial colors, artificial flavors, gluten, and top 9 common allergens.
• Pros:
  • Very gentle, suitable for babies 6 months and up.
  • Made with all-natural, organic ingredients.
  • Free from common allergens and artificial additives.
  • Prebiotic support for gut health.
• Cons:
  • Might not be as potent for severe or chronic constipation.
  • Relief may take longer than stimulant laxatives.
• User Impressions: Families love the natural and organic aspect of this product, often reporting it’s effective for their infants and toddlers. The baby-approved taste is a major plus, making it easy to give to even the pickiest eaters.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

6. Prunelax Ciruelax Regular Strength Liquid Laxative for Kids

Prunelax Ciruelax provides a tasty and effective liquid solution for children aged 4+ experiencing occasional constipation. This fast-acting laxative syrup is made with natural senna leaf extracts, delivering gentle relief by morning, typically within 8-12 hours. It’s a great choice for predictable overnight results, helping to re-establish comfortable bowel movements and ensure a peaceful night’s sleep for your child. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free!

• Key Features:
  • Fast-acting laxative syrup for overnight relief (8-12 hours).
  • Contains 38mg of natural Senna Leaf Extracts per serving.
  • Tasty and easy-to-ingest for kids ages 4+.
  • Vegan, gluten-free, and made without artificial additives.
  • Provides predictable, gentle relief.
• Pros:
  • Delivers reliable overnight results.
  • Made with natural senna.
  • Suitable for various dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free).
  • Easy-to-measure liquid format.
• Cons:
  • Not suitable for children under 4 years old.
  • Like all senna products, best for occasional use.
• User Impressions: Parents appreciate the predictable nature of Prunelax, often using it when they need a guaranteed overnight solution. The taste is generally well-received by kids, making the process smoother.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

7. JoySpring Potty Wise Drops – Natural Constipation Relief

JoySpring Potty Wise Drops offer a unique, herbal approach to child constipation relief, focusing on natural gut health and regularity. This unflavored liquid formula is a blend of elderberry fruit, licorice root extract, fennel seed, barberry root, and senna, acting as a gentle toddler stool softener. It’s an excellent choice for parents seeking a natural, additive-free alternative that supports overall digestive wellness for children aged 2-8+.

• Key Features:
  • Gentle herbal formula made with Elderberry, Licorice Root, Fennel Seed, Barberry Root, and Senna.
  • Supports healthy gut regularity and acts as a natural toddler stool softener.
  • Free from common allergens: gluten-free, sugar-free, preservative-free, additive-free, vegan.
  • Age-appropriate dosages for toddlers and kids (2-8 years and 9+).
  • Unflavored and easy to mix into drinks or food.
• Pros:
  • All-natural, herbal ingredients.
  • Supports overall gut health, not just immediate relief.
  • Unflavored for versatile mixing.
  • Free from many common allergens and harsh chemicals.
• Cons:
  • Relief might be slower or more gradual compared to stronger stimulant laxatives.
  • Individual results may vary based on diet and hydration.
• User Impressions: Families trust JoySpring for its natural composition and gentle approach. Many find it effective for ongoing digestive support and occasional constipation, appreciating the ease of adding unflavored drops to their child’s routine.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

8. Wellements Organic Children’s Laxative, Gentle Constipation

Another fantastic organic option from Wellements, these children’s laxative tablets are specifically formulated for kids aged 2 and older. Made with certified organic senna leaf, maple sugar, and extra virgin coconut oil, they offer a safe and effective way to relieve occasional constipation gently. Best taken before bedtime, these tablets work overnight to help get things moving by morning, embodying a commitment to clean, preservative-free ingredients.

• Key Features:
  • Made with preservative-free, certified organic ingredients (senna leaf, maple sugar, coconut oil).
  • Formulated for gentle relief of occasional constipation for kids 2+.
  • Best given at bedtime for morning relief.
  • USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Third Party Tested.
  • Free from preservatives, parabens, gluten, artificial colors, and flavors.
• Pros:
  • Certified organic and free from artificial additives.
  • Gentle and effective overnight action.
  • Convenient tablet format.
  • Commitment to purity and quality.
• Cons:
  • Tablets might be harder for some younger kids to chew or swallow than gummies.
  • Contains senna, which is best for occasional use.
• User Impressions: Parents who prioritize organic and clean ingredients often turn to Wellements. They appreciate the effective yet gentle overnight relief these tablets provide, especially for children who prefer a chewable format to liquids.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

9. Fletcher’s Laxative for Kids 3.50 oz (Pack of 4)

For families who love the classic root beer flavor and reliable action of Fletcher’s, this convenient 4-pack ensures you always have a gentle solution on hand. Designed to help your little one feel comfortable and regular again, this formula uses naturally derived senna, a time-trusted laxative known for its gentle yet effective properties. It works predictably within 6-12 hours, making it easy to plan for relief.

• Key Features:
  • Gentle relief for occasional constipation.
  • Formulated with naturally derived senna.
  • Pleasant root beer flavor that kids enjoy.
  • Delivers predictable relief in 6-12 hours.
  • Convenient 4-pack for ongoing use.
• Pros:
  • Kid-friendly root beer taste.
  • Reliable and predictable action.
  • Natural senna for gentle effectiveness.
  • Bulk pack offers great value and convenience.
• Cons:
  • Liquid format might require careful measurement.
  • May not be suitable for children who dislike root beer.
• User Impressions: Loyal customers of Fletcher’s often purchase this multipack, valuing the consistent quality and the distinctive taste that makes it a less stressful experience for both parents and children.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

10. Fletcher’s Laxative, For Kids, Root Beer, 3.25-Ounce

Rounding out our list is the individual size of Fletcher’s Laxative for Kids, offering the same trusted, gentle relief in a single bottle. This is a great starting point if you’re new to Fletcher’s or just need an occasional remedy. Its pleasant root beer flavor makes it a standout, helping to ease the experience of taking a laxative. With naturally derived senna, it works effectively within 6-12 hours to restore comfortable bowel movements for your child.

• Key Features:
  • Provides gentle relief to help kids feel comfortable and regular.
  • Contains naturally derived senna for effective action.
  • Appealing root beer flavor for easy administration.
  • Works predictably within 6-12 hours.
  • Convenient single bottle size.
• Pros:
  • Distinctive and popular root beer taste.
  • Gentle and time-tested formula.
  • Predictable timing for relief.
  • Easy to administer liquid.
• Cons:
  • Liquid format might not be ideal for travel.
  • Results can vary slightly among children.
• User Impressions: This product is consistently praised for its effectiveness and, more importantly, its root beer flavor, which often turns a dreaded task into a manageable one for both parents and kids. It’s a reliable choice for occasional constipation.
• Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here

Frequently Asked Questions About Laxatives for Kids

Q1: When should I consider giving my child a laxative?

A: If your child is experiencing infrequent, hard, or painful bowel movements, or if they haven’t had a bowel movement for several days and dietary changes (more fiber, water) aren’t helping, it might be time to consider a laxative. Always consult with your pediatrician before starting any new medication, especially for young children.

Q2: Are all laxatives safe for children?

A: No. Many adult laxatives are too strong for children and can cause uncomfortable side effects. It’s crucial to use only laxatives specifically formulated for children and to follow age and dosage instructions carefully. Always look for products labeled “for kids” or “pediatric.”

Q3: What’s the difference between a stimulant laxative and an osmotic laxative or stool softener?

A:
* Stimulant laxatives (like those with senna) work by encouraging the bowel muscles to contract, helping to move stool along. They are often fast-acting but generally recommended for occasional use.
* Osmotic laxatives (like those with magnesium hydroxide or polyethylene glycol) draw water into the colon to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. They are often considered gentler and can be used for slightly longer periods under medical supervision.
* Stool softeners (like docusate sodium, though less common in these specific products) work by allowing water and fats to penetrate the stool, making it softer. They don’t directly stimulate bowel movements.

Q4: How can I prevent constipation in my child?

A: Prevention is key! Encourage a diet rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), ensure adequate fluid intake (especially water), and promote regular physical activity. Establishing a consistent potty routine can also help.

Q5: How long does it take for a child’s laxative to work?

A: The time frame varies greatly depending on the type of laxative. Glycerin suppositories can work in as little as 15-60 minutes. Chewable tablets or liquid senna-based laxatives often work within 30 minutes to 12 hours, with many providing overnight relief. Natural remedies like prune-based products might take a bit longer for noticeable effects. Always check the product label for specific timing.

Q6: When should I take my child to the doctor for constipation?

A: You should consult a doctor if your child’s constipation lasts for more than a few days, if they experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in their stool, unexplained weight loss, or if they are in constant distress. A doctor can rule out underlying medical conditions and recommend the best laxative for kids or other appropriate treatment plan.

Q7: Can I give my child more than the recommended dose if the laxative isn’t working?

A: No, absolutely not. Always stick to the recommended dosage on the product label or as advised by your pediatrician. Giving more than the recommended dose can lead to uncomfortable side effects, dehydration, or other serious health issues. If a laxative isn’t working, consult your doctor for further guidance.

Finding the best laxative for kids means choosing a product that is safe, effective, and well-tolerated by your child. We hope this guide helps you navigate the options and find the perfect solution for your little one’s digestive health. Remember, a happy tummy leads to a happy kid!