Sleepovers and self-confidence

Can Allyson stay the night? Can I sleep over at Johnny's? Mom, can I invite a friend to stay over?

My children keep asking me if they can spend the night with friends, and in the summer, when schedules are less busy, I usually say yes.

But what happens when your child desperately wants to spend the night with a friend and is afraid that the friend will discover that they wet the bed?

Children who wet the bed may want to join in the fun of a sleepover, but they often hesitate to join their friends for fear of embarrassment. Parents should help their child feel comfortable and enjoy the joys of a summer sleepover. If your child is anxious about spending the night at a friend's house, you might consider organizing a sleepover at their grandmother's (or another close relative's) house. Make sure the grandparents are aware of your child's bedwetting and that they are supportive and reassuring. This can be a great way to help your child gain confidence and feel more comfortable with sleepovers.

It's possible that one of your child's friends also wets the bed. Perhaps you've talked to other parents and know that one of your child's friends also experiences bedwetting. You could perhaps talk to their parents and organize a sleepover for them and your child. It's always good for your child to know they're not alone and that millions of other children have to deal with bedwetting as they grow up. If your child is uncomfortable with the idea of having an accident at a friend's house, invite that friend to spend the night at your place. A familiar routine and environment are comforting. Also, by hosting a sleepover at your house, your child doesn't have to worry about bringing absorbent underwear or leaving some at their friend's house. Put the nighttime underwear in the bathroom so your child can change in private. No one needs to know your child is wearing underwear! The most important thing is to focus on having fun! There's no reason your child should miss out on the fun of a sleepover just because they wet the bed. Don't make a big deal out of bedwetting. Instead, focus on planning fun sleepover activities with your child. And as a parent, make sure you get a good night's sleep the night before! Trust me on that.