For a child who’s wetting the bed, getting to the bathroom on time is important. You many have the “no running in the house” rule, but for a child who’s been wetting the bed, this rule may need to be relaxed!

En route accidents are probably be more embarrassing than wetting the bed, and can even cause injuries. If you have wood, laminate or tile floors, it would be really easy for your child (or you, if you’re coming to help) to slip and fall in a tell-tale puddle. Even if the injury isn’t serious, it hurts to bruise yourself, and also wounds your pride.

Giving your child easy access to the bathroom can help them stop wetting the bed.

If it’s possible, give your child a bedroom near the bathroom. If your kids share a room, make sure that your bedwetter has the spot closest to the door. You may need to change the kids’ sleeping arrangements. Have your child swap bedrooms with whoever is closest to the bathroom. Of course, big sister might not be thrilled with the idea of giving up her prime real estate so her younger sib can stop wetting the bed. Just explain that it’s temporary. Once wetting the bed is a thing of the past, they can switch back. Sometimes we have to sacrifice for one another - it’s something we do as part of being a family.

There are a couple of other steps you can take to make getting to the bathroom easier.

Keep the room brightly lit with a night light. Fear of the dark or the boogie man might keep your child wetting the bed rather than getting up. They may also be afraid of getting into trouble or disappointing you if they come out of their room after wetting the bed; even if it’s just a partial accident on the way to the bathroom. Also, make sure the door is open and the lid to the toilet seat is up (remind dad that this isn’t free reign for leaving the seat up. If you’ve got a little one, keep a step stool nearby so they can easily get on the toilet.

As the accidents get fewer and farther between, encourage your child to come get you before they go to the restroom. This will help them control the urge to pee just a little bit longer, and will help them out in the long run.

Of course, if they simply can’t hold it and are doing “the dance” (you know, legs crossed, hopping from one foot to the other, etc…), have them get to the toilet first, and then come wake you if needed. Most of the time, they will simply want some comforting. A nice, long hug will communicate to your child that you are proud of them for trying to stop wetting the bed, that you love them, and that you are there for them whenever they need you.

(c) 2007 Triumph Communications, LLC