We're in the potty training trenches with my second right now, and oh man I'm so pooped out (pun overwhelmingly intended). The feeling of not having to buy diapers for two is in sight! But, we're having some poop trouble over here and it hasn't been fun.
While most of you probably know the excitement of a potty trained child, it that does not mean that disposable undergarments are completely out of sight for everyone. Some kiddos struggle with bed wetting well into their elementary school years. If you have an older child who still doesn't wake up dry, here are some great tips to keep in mind.
Tips for the Parent of an Older Child Who Still Wets the Bed
Hydrate Throughout the Day
We all like a sip of water before bed, but does your child chug down an entire glass of water before hitting the hay? If so, this can be an issue during the night, especially if your child is a heavy sleeper, and has difficulty waking up.
One way to prevent being so thirsty at night is to make sure your child is getting enough to drink throughout the day. It can be easy to forget to stay hydrated while your child is active throughout the day, so be sure to tell him to keep a water bottle nearby.
Constipation: The Culprit
Does your child have regular bowel movements? You may think it is strange that this would have anything to do with someone who still wets the bed. However, constipation can actually lead to bedwetting. The reason is that having too much stool can actually reduce the capacity of the bladder, causing your child to have difficulties holding in the urine at night.
Test out this theory and tackle any constipation issues to see if it helps your child stay dry. Maybe you need more activity throughout the day, probiotics or prebiotics may help. A diet rich in veggies or yogurt with fruits and healthy doses of liquids are great starters. If you think constipation is the reason your older child still wets the bed, consult your child's pediatrician.
It Can Be Hereditary
Did you or your child’s other parent have issues wetting the bed when you were children? If so, it is possible that your child will also have issues up until the age you stopped wetting the bed. Bedwetting can be hereditary, so remember that it is very possible that this is something that your child has no control over.
Sometimes it can be hard dealing with an older child who still wets the bed. If this is something that your child cannot control, maybe punishments aren't the correct way to discipline. Sometimes positive reinforcement may do the trick.
Don’t Get Distraught
There are a lot of parents out there trying to come up with a solution to this bed wetting problem. However, try not to get too distraught about it. Talk to your doctor to see if there are other solutions for your older child. If your child still wets the bed, find out why and stick to your instincts.
If you can't find something that works for your child, maybe seek out support from other parent's who are facing, or who have faced similar circumstances. Maybe consult with friends or seek out a support group on Facebook or forums.
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Just know that you aren't alone in this journey. Someone out there is struggling too and you may be able to help each other. What advice would you have for the parent of an older child who still wets the bed?
Think about this: If your older child still wets the bed, then they may be just as concerned about it as you are, maybe even embarrassed. Be sure to be affectionate about it with your child and show them some sympathy. Pray with your child and let them know you are fighting for them.
