How to handle bedwetting when your child has a sleepover

1. Prepare ahead of time

Before your child's friends come over, make sure you have a plan in place for managing bedwetting. This could include making sure your child has an independent and easy access to a change of clothes, spare bedding and any necessary hygiene products. You may also want to consider using a discreet waterproof mattress protector to protect your child's mattress. PeapodMats are parents' favourite, as the mat lies on top of the bedsheet without straps or flaps and is discreet. PeapodMats look just like a blanket or a towel. They make tidying up an accident a breeze and you and your child will be back asleep in minutes! No need to wrestle with the mattress in the middle of the night!

2. Communicate with your child

Talk to your child about bedwetting and let them know that it's a common issue that many children experience. Reassure them that it's nothing to be ashamed of and that you're there to support them. Encourage them to let you know if they need to use the bathroom during the night and ensure that they have everything they need for a discreet change of clothes or bedding in the middle of the night.

3. Communicate with your child's friends' parents

If your child will be spending the night at a friend's house, it's important to communicate with their parents about the bedwetting issue. Let them know that your child may need extra support and ask for their understanding and cooperation.

4. Be discreet

If your child does experience bedwetting while their friends are over, try to be as discreet as possible when handling the situation. Provide your child with a change of clothes and bedding and encourage them to change in a private area. If necessary, consider using a white noise machine or other sound-dampening strategies to minimize any noise.

5. Focus on fun activities

While it's important to be prepared for bedwetting, it's also important to focus on fun activities and enjoying time with your child's friends. Encourage your child to engage in fun activities and games that will keep them distracted and help them feel more comfortable.

6. Don't make a big deal out of it

If your child's friends do find out about the bedwetting, try not to make a big deal out of it. Remind your child that it's a common issue and that many children experience it. Encourage your child to be open and honest with their friends if they feel confident about it.

7. Wake them to use the toilet

While waking bedwetting children is not usually recommended, you might want to make an exception this one night. You can make a plan with your child that you will wake them for the toilet twice a night. It might be helpful if you know when your child typically wets the bed (i.e. soon after falling asleep, in the middle of the night or right before waking up).

Managing bedwetting when your child has friends over can be challenging, but with some planning and communication, it's possible to handle the situation so that your child doesn't miss out on sleepovers.