Staying dry through the night is a challenge for many young children who are still learning to control their bladder. Most children outgrow this stage by the time they are five or six, but in the meantime it can be difficult to know how to handle this situation. It can be a tender subject for some children. They may become embarrassed when they realize what has happened. While having to change your child’s bedding every night can be a pain, make sure you don’t scold your child for wetting the bed. This only adds to the pressure they are already feeling about the situation. Be sure to talk to your child and let them know that they are not alone. Bedwetting is actually very common, but if you don’t talk to your child about it they may feel as if they are the only one going through it. Let them know that it is a very normal thing and that it is nothing to be embarrassed about. Bedwetting can often be caused by a stressful event in the child’s life, such as a divorce or moving to a new neighborhood. Be sure to talk to your child and let them know that you are there for them during this difficult time.
If the problem persists for more than three months you may want to talk to your child’s pediatrician and see if she has any solutions that you could try. There are even some prescriptions that can help ease the symptoms, however, it is important to weigh both sides as there are often side effects that are worse than the actual problem. Be sure to discuss this with your pediatrician before you make a decision one way or the other.
Some parents suggest limiting your child’s fluid intake a few hours before bed so that their bladder isn’t as full during the night. Also be sure to have your child use the potty before they head to bed. The more they empty their bladder the less likely they are to have night time accidents.
Don’t worry, you may have a bit more laundry for a while, but this stage won’t last forever.