If you’re in the fight for a dry night – understanding bedwetting in toddlers can help ease your worries. Many parents see bedwetting as a sign of something deeper, but in reality, it’s a normal and common part of childhood development. Most toddlers outgrow it naturally, with a little patience and support. While it can sometimes test your patience (and laundry skills), bedwetting is usually nothing to worry about. Knowing why it happens and how to approach it calmly makes all the difference. Written by Cathrine Versfeld.
I’ve had enough toddlers and gone through enough bedwetting to know that it’s not a big deal. People seem to often use bedwetting as a kind of litmus test for how well-adjusted/grown up/psychologically okay their children are. And although yes, bedwetting has been known to occasionally indicate distress, it is far more likely that your tot is just one of those kids who is going through a bedwetting phase which is totally normal and common.
There are so many contributing factors that you may be unaware of. I remember worrying that one of my children had a bladder infection, when it turned out that she was just drinking tons of water before bedtime (without my knowledge).
Whatever the reason might be, we’ve never given any of our five kids a hard time when they’ve wet their beds. We’ve simply learned to buy cheaper mattresses for the younger kids and change their bedding every day.
The thing is, kids seem to get ashamed of it all on their own. Despite us never shouting at them or even looking irritated, they’ll hide their pants or cover the spot with a blanket or (like one memorable occasion,) blame it on the dog.
They clearly have this idea that “babies wee in their beds but big kids don’t”. It’s heart-breaking because I don’t think there’s any reason for them to feel ashamed about it … it is what it is. So how does one get through this without them feeling like crap?
“I want her to stop feeling shame and I want her not to have to hide her pants or lie about the dog.”
I decided there must be a better way than covering the toddler’s mattress in pleather (fake leather) and investing in 10 extra bed sheets, so here we are, trying out the DryNites Pyjama Pants. They’re stretchy and can be pulled up and down like actual pants. The pattern on the front has pretty much guaranteed my daughter’s never-ending devotion to them.
They do bear enough of a resemblance to nappies that she hesitated, though, and it got a bit tricky. I didn’t want her to feel that she was regressing, because the fact is, she wasn’t. It’s just the occasional “oops” at this stage, but regular enough to cause her embarrassment and that’s the worst for me.
I want her to stop feeling shame and I want her not to have to hide her pants or lie about the dog … so I’m going to check out these pants. She’s already warmed to them and actually seems rather chuffed because they’re especially hers. And now she won’t have to wonder around in the dark at night in wet pants, trying to figure out how to hide the wet spot on her bed!
This article has been shared by Cathrine Versfeld on her blog.
Also read:
Bedwetting: When to consult a doctor
Bedwetting tips from Dr Michael Mol
BabyYumYum Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – The Fight for a Dry Night: Understanding Bedwetting in Toddlers
How can I help my toddler feel less embarrassed about bedwetting?
Reassure them that bedwetting is normal and common, and that they are not alone. Avoid making a big deal out of accidents, and never punish or shame them. Using absorbent pyjama pants can also help them feel more comfortable and confident at night.
Should I put my potty-trained toddler back in nappies at night?
If bedwetting is a frequent issue, nappies may feel like a step backwards for a child who sees themselves as a “big kid.” Instead, try using pull-up pyjama pants, which look and feel more like underwear while still providing protection.
Does bedwetting mean my child isn’t fully potty trained?
No, night-time bladder control develops separately from daytime potty training. Many children who are fully potty trained during the day still struggle with bedwetting at night, and this can continue until age 4 or 5, or even later in some cases.
Should I wake my child up at night to prevent bedwetting?
Waking a child up to go to the toilet can help in some cases, but it does not teach the body to stay dry naturally. Instead, focus on establishing a bedtime routine, limiting fluids before bed, and using protective bedding if needed.
How can I protect my toddler’s mattress from bedwetting accidents?
Using a waterproof mattress protector or absorbent bed pads can make clean-up easier. Having spare sheets ready for quick changes during the night can also help reduce stress for both parents and toddlers.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If bedwetting persists beyond the typical age range or causes distress, consult a paediatrician or healthcare provider.
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