Learning how to leave behind diapers and go to the bathroom is a big accomplishment for a child. But as many as 15 to 20 percent of kids 4 years of age and 5 to 10 percent of kids 10 years of age still wet the bed at night despite being potty trained. While you as a parent may struggle with your child's bed-wetting, there are things you can do to make the situation better.
Be Patient
Your reaction to your child's bed-wetting has a direct impact on the their self-esteem, since bed-wetting is not something they can control, according to Wake Forest University. Most children outgrow the bed-wetting stage by age 5, so give your child positive encouragement instead of being upset or frustrated.
Limit Water Before Bedtime
Many bed-wetting problems come as a result of a small bladder and a child having heavy sleeping patterns. Making sure your child empties his bladder several times before going to bed at night and limiting water for the last few hours before bed can help decrease the chances of bed-wetting. Make sure, however, to keep your child properly hydrated throughout the day, especially if they participate in sports and during the hot summer months.
Nighttime Bathroom Trips
Before you go to bed at night, wake your child up and help them go to the bathroom, the University of Michigan recommends. While this won't train your child to not wet the bed, it decreases her chances of doing so in the middle of the night.
Try a Bed-Wetting Alarm
Many stores sell alarms that attach to the child's clothing that go off when the clothing is soaked during a bed-wetting episode. This will wake up the child, many times in the middle of the bed-wetting, and allow them to get up and go to the bathroom. This method helps children recognize the feeling of their bladder being full while they are asleep. After six to eight weeks, many children enjoy dry nights most of the time after using the alarm, according to the University of Michigan.
See Your Doctor
While bed-wetting is not uncommon for kids under the age of 5, if your child is older and still has consistent bed-wetting problems, you may want to consult a doctor. Prescription medication may be especially effective for a child going on an overnight trips such as a summer camp, where bed-wetting can cause embarrassment.
