We love long weekends, holidays, and visiting family. But with a bedwetting child, there are some extra things to consider when planning these trips to avoid stress.
Lana Taylor Figgs of Westover, Maryland, knows how worrying it can be to vacation with a child who has bedwetting. “I have an 8-year-old daughter who still sleeps so soundly that she doesn’t wake up to go to the bathroom,” says Figgs. “This year, she’s become more aware of it. When we travel, I always make sure to have waterproof bed pads and disposable underwear.”
The stress of travel
Mary Coonts, a child development expert at CIGNA Pediatrics, says that traveling with a bedwetting child can put added pressure on both the child and the parents. A lot of stress can be caused by the fear that the child will wet the bed in a hotel or a host's bed, Coonts says. Parents may also have to inform relatives and friends about the child's bedwetting. It's wise to pack extra clothes and bedding. Often, the systems and routines you use at home can't be maintained while traveling. This disruption to routine can be stressful for a child who is already prone to bedwetting. However, it's important to reassure your child during a trip and assure them that everything will be okay. As I often say, you can't control anything during sleep, Coonts says. It's like a dream; you really can't control it. Most children think they're the only ones who have this problem. It's actually very common.
Tips for a stress-free trip
Dr. Benjamin Danielson, clinic director and clinical director at Seattle Children's Hospital's Odessa Brown Children's Clinic, agrees that reassuring the child is a priority. The most important thing is that your child feels comfortable and secure. If they don't, it can trigger bedwetting, says Dr. Danielson. A child can be extremely embarrassed if this happens and will likely already be uncomfortable sleeping in an unfamiliar bed. If they have a stuffed animal, blanket, or nightlight that helps comfort them, bring it along. Dr. Danielson also suggests that parents make sure their child can easily go to the bathroom during the night. Before putting the child to bed, practice the route to the bathroom and show them where the light switches are. Tell your child where you or any other adult will be sleeping, and let them know that if they get scared in the middle of the night, a responsible person is nearby, says Dr. Danielson. Your child's ability to cope with bedwetting will improve if you, the parent, understand that it's not their fault. If you're visiting relatives or friends, it's a good idea, though sometimes awkward, to let them know in advance that your child wets the bed. Most adults are understanding, and they'll take it better if you help with preparation and see to the cleanup after any accidents. Also, if your hosts can put your child in their own bed or sleeping bag, it can reduce the potential cleanup, says Dr. Danielson. If possible, it might be a good idea to use a plastic mattress protector or sleeping bag liner to prevent any mess. Also, bring a spare set of sheets and clean pajamas.
Dr. Benjamin Danielson offers the following advice to help you and your child have a wonderful, stress-free holiday:
- The important thing is to plan ahead. Think about the trip and where your child will sleep. Depending on the mode of transport, the destination, and the time of year, it can be difficult to find places to wash clothes and get clean sheets in case of bedwetting. Therefore, it's important to bring extra clothes.
- Using nighttime underwear provides a comfortable sleeping experience and reduces cleaning time, no matter where you are.
- If you are camping, bring a waterproof liner for sleeping bags and camper bunks.
- Limit liquids after dinner and encourage your children to use the bathroom before bedtime.
- Whenever possible, make it easier for your child to get to the bathroom during the night.
- If you are staying at a hotel, contact the hotel before your arrival and request an extra bed and an additional set of bed linen.
- If your child wets the bed, stay calm and ask them to help you clean it up. Remember to reassure your child and tell them that everything is alright.
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine . The things you normally do before bed shouldn't change just because you're not at home.
Treating a child for bedwetting with separated parents.Voir l'article
R15 Uriflex Watch: The Discreet and Stylish Companion for Days Without ForgettingVoir l'article
Latest comments