Disgusting toilets and feeling uncomfortable when using them make children hesitant to go during the school day, but the teachers' rules also matter. This is shown in a thesis at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Almost 400 children at eight primary and lower secondary schools in Gothenburg, Sweden, responded to a survey on how they feel about their school toilets and on their toilet habits during school hours. Although this was a local study, the geographical spread of reports on the standards and cleanliness of school toilets hints that they may be a concern to children around the world. Many children reported that there may be urine and faeces splattered on the toilet ring and that the floor is often wet and soiled. As if that was not enough, toilet paper, soap and paper towels are often missing.
'The hygiene, standard and security children experience in school toilets are very important for their willingness to visit them', says the author of the thesis paediatric nurse Barbro Lundblad.
Although most children need to go to the restroom at least once during every school day, the study shows that 16% never urinate and 63% never have a bowel movement at school.
'Children's toilet habits are clearly related to their need for security and well-being during school hours. Many children also reported having problems with the door lock and that they are afraid of being "caught" in a compromising situation', says Lundblad.