Waking in the middle of the night to deal with wet sheets, soggy pajamas and an upset child is a part of life most parents endure. It’s very common for children who are potty-trained pros during the day to lose control during the night. While it can certainly be inconvenient, it’s important to remember that bedwetting is normal for young children, and it’s typically a phase that will pass with time. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 20 percent of children still struggle with bedwetting at age 5.
While it’s easier said than done, nighttime accidents are no reason to stress or panic. With these tips from pediatrician and award-winning author Dr. Laura Jana, you can help your child (and keep your sanity) through bedwetting:
- Avoid Punishment: Bedwetting, also called enuresis, is a developmental stage that children outgrow at a variety of ages. Remain calm and avoid punishing or blaming your child when they have an accident. Reassure him that he is not alone and that many other children his age wet the bed. You can help normalize the experience for your child by having him help clean up the soiled bed and pajamas.
- Rule Out Health Issues: It’s important to check with your pediatrician to ensure there isn’t an underlying infection or other cause for concern. One red flag to watch for may include if your child was previously able to stay dry at night (for 6 months or more), is having daytime wetting, or is older than 5. Remember, in most cases, bedwetting is completely normal and healthy for your child as they grow and develop bladder control.
- Make a Pit Stop Before Bed: Establish a routine for your child to use the restroom at the same time every night, like before brushing their teeth or after storytime. Emptying their tanks right before bed may not prevent bedwetting completely, but it can help decrease the odds— and volume— of an accident. A consistent nightly routine can also help your little one get a good night’s rest.
- Plan Ahead: Save yourself time and effort by taking extra measures to prepare for accidents. Keep a clean set of sheets and pajamas laid out for mid-night changes. If your child is having accidents regularly, you can purchase absorbent “training pants” for her to wear through the night, or invest in a water-proof mattress cover.
The key to enduring the bedwetting stage is patience. Your child is growing and learning, and this too shall pass! Need help with potty training? Here’s more from parents and experts.
4 Ways to Explore Spring with Your Child
more4 Ways to Raise a Good Friend
more2021 Parent Reviews
moreThe Power of Puppet Play in Child Development
moreIn Good (and Clean) Hands: Considerations for Children's Safe Return to Child Care
moreParent Reviews - "We feel like our children are always happy and excited to go to school each day!""
moreReady for Spring Cleaning? Get your Child Involved!
moreIn Good (and Clean) Hands: Considerations for Children's Safe Return to Child Care
moreIn Good (and Clean) Hands: Considerations for Children's Safe Return to Child Care
moreThe Power of Puppet Play in Child Development
moreJoin our Caring and Giving Virtual Donation
moreJoin our Caring and Giving Virtual Donation
more Exhausted from the election? These pre-K and kindergarten voters may brighten your mood. ÂÂ
moreNeed Some New Books in Your Mix? Check out Og's Story Time Book List
moreParent Review - "During this whole epidemic they have done everything they could ....."
moreOnline with Og, Exploring Land Transportation!
moreBuilding Social, Emotional and Academic Growth, Amidst a Pandemic
moreOnline with Og at Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreJoin Primrose's Online Curriculum with Og the bookworm!
moreStory time book list
moreComplimentary Primrose Schools Online Weekly Curriculum!
moreParent Review - "We Love Primrose School of Ken Caryl!"
moreMore than just a cute puppet..
moreLet go of "Parent Guilt"
moreDe-Stressing and Spending Quality Time with Your Kids
more6 Ways to Help Your Preschooler Make Friends
moreParent Review - Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreIt's Hot Out There! Summer Skin Care Tips for Your Child
moreHow Working Parents Stay Connected with Their Kids During the Summer
moreParent Review - Primrose School of Ken Caryl
morePrimrose Reviews from Real Moms
moreDo you have a "Threenager"? Confessions from the Mom of a Threenager
moreBattle Bedwetting with These 4 Tips!
moreKid-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes & Crafts
moreParent Testimonial
moreParent Review - Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreHow Primrose Differs from Montessori
moreCelebrate Back to School with these 5 Crafts & Activities!
more5 Family Staycation Ideas!
moreParent Review of Primrose School of Ken Caryl
more5 Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July at Home
moreParent Review of Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreMy Kid is Turning into a Bully! How Do I Stop it?
moreDon't Pass the Phone: 7 Alternatives to Screen Time
moreOne Size Does Not Fit All - Tips for Raising Siblings by Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreYelp & FB - Parent Reviews of Primrose Ken Caryl
moreStraight from the Source: Why Moms Love SwimLabs Littleton
moreParent Reviews of The Primrose School of Ken Caryl
moreHow to Ask About Your Child's Art
moreParent Testimonials
moreHow to Survive Toddler Tantrums - Pointers for Parents
more