Diarrhea without being sick?

[Lou]

I have 2 little ones who characteristically have looser stools than the others. I classify diarrhea as runny/liquidy and wouldn't be concerned until the stools reach that point. I think it's totally possible to have diarrhea without showing other symptoms though...and since none of us are doctors I send home children if they have had 2 or more bouts of true diarrhea during a daycare day regardless of any other symptoms.

[Inspired by Reggio]

I have 2 little ones who characteristically have looser stools than the others. ...

I agree the key is knowing what is 'normal' for a child ... however either way if 'normal' is exploding out the diaper liquid several times a day I would be concerned as to 'why' as well and want to know cause unless it is a wee one on a strictly breastfed diet - that is not 'normal' bm behaviour for children

My understanding that a characteristic 'healthy poop' once 'solid food' is being introduced is soft enough to pass with ease but still has 'formation' to it - in the toilet it would look like an S shapre ... in a diaper it would sort of be a 'squished pancake' consistency ... from my years of dealing with kids hard balls are a sign of dehydration or lack of fibre in the diet and 'loose' stools are often due to food allergy or intolerance such as dairy / wheat / gluten and so forth...children with these style of stools often end up with excema and other 'skin conditions' as well over time from constant exposure to the foods that they are not digesting properly