My daughter is 8 years old and occasionally gets constipated and I was wondering if there is anything mild I can give her to help? I have been trying lots of water but that isn't helping much.

Have you discussed this with your doctor?

It's best to see your doctor about this, as your doctor knows her medical history, and therefore can better diagnose what may be happening. It could simply be a matter of the foods she eats, or fear of using the bathroom (many kids suffer from constipation because they had a bad experience and hold it in).

Sadly we can't diagnose online, your only option is to see your doctor.

Good luck.

You can give MiraLax until you are able to get in to the doctor. My son has the same problem and it was due to him not wanting to go to the bathroom at school and we had to retrain his bowels according to our pediatrician.

It tastes best dissolved in apple juice.

Do what everyone else said. I'd particularly like to emphasize the see your doctor portion of their answers, as nothing tops a physical exam.

Also, you might want to look at her diet. Foods high in fiber are better especially in those who have constipation. If you're not sure about what sort of foods this includes check this chart out: High-fiber foods - MayoClinic.com (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-fiber-foods/NU00582) There's also a chance she could have a milk allergy as this sometimes presents as constipation. Another cause could be a simple change in routine.

Does your daughter have any other issues besides the constipation? Abdominal pain, nausea, or bloody or black stools? How long has this been going on?