Parenting Tips
Bedwetting is upsetting for the parents as well as the child affected and it can try the patience of even the calmest of parents, especially if you feel you are doing everything you can to help your child control the problem.
Your child's distress, wet sheets and interrupted sleep can make a miserable night for everyone, including a sleep-deprived parent who may already be overwhelmed by the demands of parenting.
But it's essential not to let your child know you're frustrated as this could make him feel a failure, turning a physical issue into an emotional one as well. Here are some tips to help you feel more in control:
Have reasonable expectations
It's important to remind yourself that bedwetting is quite common, especially among boys. Even children who have mastered staying dry during the day can wet the bed at night up to 6 or 7 years of age, and it is still considered normal.
Accidents can happen no matter what you and your child do to prevent them. If a certain course of action isn't working straight away, don't give up. Sometimes it just takes time.
Be prepared
Prepare yourself in case of an accident in the night - spare pyjamas and sheets, towels and a pair of DryNites® close at hand will all help you deal with an accident without too much fuss. Another great way to protect against accidents is to use DryNites® Bed Mats which have been specifically designed to fit discretely onto the mattress to provide effective absorbent protection against accidents in the night.
Make bedtime special and fun
Nighttime and the lead-up to bed can be a difficult time for you and your child if they wet the bed. Creating a happy and calm routine takes away some of the worry and makes bedtime an enjoyable time. A fun bath, a bedtime story in a cosy bedroom, and a chat and a cuddle before sleep are all good ways to help you both relax.
Find out more in our Ready for Bed section
Take care of yourself
As well as taking care of your child, take care of yourself. Make sure you're getting enough rest overall so that occasional interruptions in the night won't put you over the edge. Try taking cat naps when you get the chance or just having a bit of time in the day to relax and unwind.
Connect with others
Remember that you're not alone. Many families are going through what you're going through, and connecting with people in the same situation can be a huge help. Visit our forum to share your experiences and get tips from other parents.
