How to Support Older Kids in Overcoming Bedwetting

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How to Support Older Kids in Overcoming Bedwetting
by Team Family Matters
Updated: Sep. 13, 2021
Originally Published: March 19, 2021

Bedwetting can be a sensitive topic for older children who have previously experienced success with potty training. While it’s common for kids in elementary and even middle school to occasionally wet the bed, this can lead to feelings of shame or guilt, especially since they have been praised for their progress in using the toilet. It’s important to understand that this issue is not uncommon and can happen to kids well into their teenage years.

What Factors Contribute to Bedwetting in Older Children?

To put things into perspective, about 15 to 20 percent of children aged five to seven may experience bedwetting at least occasionally. This number decreases as kids age, dropping to about two percent by the age of 16. However, this still represents a significant number of young people. Common causes of bedwetting in older kids may include:

A genetic tendency inherited from family members
Deep sleep that prevents them from waking up when their bladder is full
An unusually small bladder capacity
Low levels of vasopressin, a hormone that helps regulate urine production during sleep
Stress or changes in the family environment, even positive ones

In rare cases, bedwetting can indicate more serious conditions, such as urinary tract infections or diabetes.

Effective Strategies to Address Bedwetting in Older Kids

If you’re navigating the challenges of bedwetting with a teenager, here are some supportive strategies to consider:

Establish a Hydration Schedule: Encourage your child to drink fluids throughout the day, tapering off as bedtime approaches to reduce the likelihood of accidents at night.
Implement Regular Bathroom Breaks: Make it a routine for your child to use the bathroom every few hours and right before bedtime. Consider adding nightlights to guide them comfortably during nighttime trips.
Evaluate Food and Drink Choices: Be mindful of items that may irritate the bladder, such as chocolate milk, citrus juices, and caffeinated drinks.
Talk About Digestive Health: Discuss any potential constipation issues with your child, as a full rectum can press on the bladder and contribute to bedwetting.
Maintain Sleep Quality: Avoid waking your child in the middle of the night for bathroom trips, as this can disrupt their sleep and not solve the bedwetting issue.
Adjust Bedtime Routines: If deep sleeping is a concern, try adjusting your child’s bedtime to ensure they get adequate rest.
Consult a Pediatrician: If bedwetting persists, seek advice from a healthcare professional for additional options like bedwetting alarms or medication.

Understanding Psychological Factors

Bedwetting can also stem from psychological issues related to stress or trauma, such as transitioning to a new school or experiencing a family loss. In such cases, the bedwetting may resolve as the child learns to cope with these changes.

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Summary

Bedwetting can be a challenging issue for older children, but understanding its causes and implementing supportive strategies can make a difference. From maintaining a hydration schedule to discussing potential psychological factors, parents can play a crucial role in helping their kids overcome this common concern.