Families who loved It Hurts When I Poop! by Howard J. Bennett often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts avoiding the bathroom, hiding during bowel movements, or expressing fear that pooping will be painful. It is specifically designed for families dealing with functional constipation and stool withholding, a common cycle where fear of pain leads to further discomfort. Dr. Bennett uses a clear, medical yet child friendly approach to demystify the digestive system. The story follows Ryan, a young boy who visits his pediatrician to learn why his tummy hurts. Through gentle explanations and a clever analogy about a poop factory, the book validates a child's anxiety while providing concrete solutions like fiber rich foods and the importance of not holding it in. It is an essential tool for parents of preschoolers and early elementary students who need to shift from a mindset of fear to one of empowerment and bodily autonomy.