Simple solutions for occasional nighttime accidents

Raising children is far from easy, as all parents know. Obstacles inevitably arise as they grow. And bedwetting, as frustrating as it may seem for both you and your child, is just one of those obstacles. Almost all children will experience their share of nighttime accidents. It's about being prepared to handle them. Your child's bladder will eventually catch up with the rest of their body's growth, and the accidents will decrease.

In the meantime, here are some suggestions to help you feel prepared for your child's occasional nighttime accidents:

• Stay calm. Your initial reaction might be to scold your child, but remember, it's not their fault. Staying calm will reduce their embarrassment. You'll show them that an occasional accident isn't a big deal, that it's a normal part of development. Let your child know that most children experience nighttime accidents until at least the age of seven, so many of their friends are probably going through similar things.
• Start cleaning up. Let your child help you make the bed and ask them to change their pajamas. A rational, solution-oriented approach will show your child that this is just a minor mishap. You might want to use a mattress protector to minimize the mess. Finally, make sure your child goes to the bathroom before returning to bed.
• Don't talk about it. The next morning, don't mention the accident unless your child brings it up. If they want to talk about it, simply reassure them that bedwetting isn't something they can control, and that they don't need to worry.

Even if the child only experiences occasional nighttime accidents, it is still wise to follow these tips, as they can help prevent future accidents:

• Incorporate a trip to the toilet into your child's bedtime routine, even if they don't feel the need.
• Instead of restricting fluids completely, offer your child pieces of ice so they stay hydrated without falling asleep with a full bladder.
• Remember to wake your child up before going to bed so they can go to the bathroom one more time.

Disposable pads will help your child feel more confident going to sleep because they look like real underwear while still providing the protection children need, especially when lying down. Whatever works best for you and your child as you deal with these accidents, the most important thing is to stick to a plan and include your child in the process to give them a sense of control. Being prepared for these little challenges will make the process easier and less upsetting for your child. If you are still concerned about your child's bedwetting or if accidents become more frequent, I recommend speaking with your pediatrician, who can offer a better understanding of your child's symptoms and a range of possible solutions.