Bed Wetting: How to Handle it Appropriately
Our daughter was “day” potty-trained by her second birthday. However, a year and a half later she was still soaking through a training diaper, or her sheets, every night. The bedwetting phase was long and frustrating, but we picked up great perspective and a few tips along the way.
1. Be flexible.
Bedwetting is a developmental milestone and even sensible strategies will fail if your child is not ready. If you child is not making progress, it may be time to take a break.Didn’t catch that? This explains it.
2. Create Success.
Offer a reward every time your child wakes up with dry pants. Stickers, candy, and special privileges can provide the motivation your child needs to reach her larger goal.
3. Remain Positive.
It’s fun to celebrate success, but it is just as important to de-emphasize setbacks. When you child wets the bed, resist the urge to show your frustration. Take a deep breath, help her clean up, and empower her to try again.
At times it felt like our daughter would wet her bed forever, but at 3.5 years old she was suddenly able to stay dry all night, every night. We celebrated with a trip to the toy store and never looked back.