With constipation, the same diet changes that help treat it can also help prevent it. Also, creating a regular toilet routine can help prevent your older child’s constipation. Here are some other ways to keep things moving:

• If your baby’s prone to constipation, you might want to hold off on introducing solids until 6 months to allow your child’s digestive system to mature
• For a formula-fed baby, offer him a few ounces of water each day, as long as he’s 4 months or older and his pediatrician says it’s ok
• For a first food, try barley, instead of the more-constipating rice cereal, or go right to first fruits and veggies