The return to school can be a period of adjustment for many children, and a new study suggests that bedwetting is a common concern for parents. According to a survey of 1,000 parents of children aged 4-7, a significant 40% of children who experience bedwetting see an increase in incidents within the first week of school. This is likely due to changes in their daily routine and anxieties associated with being back in the classroom.
The survey revealed that 86% of parents reported their child had wet the bed, with 23% of those incidents starting at age 4 or older. Interestingly, 68% of parents confirmed that starting school had some impact on their child’s bedwetting, with 31% of children expressing reluctance to go to school if they had experienced an episode the night before. This highlights the significant impact that bedwetting can have on a child’s well-being and their willingness to engage in school activities.
While bedwetting can be a sensitive topic for families, it’s important to recognize that it’s a common experience and that there are strategies to help children manage it. Pampers Ninjamas Pyjama Pants, a brand specializing in bedwetting solutions, has partnered with Child Psychologist Dr. Kimberley Bennett to develop a 21-day ‘Back to School with a Boost’ journal. This resource aims to help children feel more confident during the transition back to school and when dealing with bedwetting episodes.
Dr. Bennett emphasizes the importance of open communication and support for children experiencing bedwetting. She suggests that parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in helping their children work through their emotions and feel understood. The research revealed that children returning to school often experience anxieties related to separation from their parents (64%), following instructions from the teacher (55%), and spending time with unfamiliar children (60%).
In addition to anxieties, other factors that contribute to bedwetting in children include tiredness (33%) and peer relationships (19%). The study found that nearly three-quarters (73%) of parents acknowledge that bedwetting can negatively impact their child’s self-confidence. Despite understanding this impact, 18% of parents feel unprepared to manage the situation effectively.
Dr. Ranj, a pediatrician, TV presenter, and author who has also partnered with the bedwetting pyjama pant brand, highlights the connection between stress and bedwetting. He explains that nervousness or excitement can trigger stress in children, leading to bedwetting episodes. Managing these feelings can help break the cycle of bedwetting. Billie Faiers, a celebrity ambassador and TV personality, adds her personal perspective on the subject, emphasizing the importance of helping children feel prepared and positive about going to school. Her experience with bedwetting within her family reinforces the need for support and resources that empower children to overcome these challenges.
The ‘Back to School with a Boost’ journal provides a valuable tool for parents to help their children navigate the anxieties and adjustments associated with returning to school. It’s a reminder that open communication, support, and resources are essential in helping children manage bedwetting and build their confidence during this important transition.
