It’s November already and the holidays are right around the corner. For a lot of families, this means either traveling to visit others, or out of town family members will be coming to celebrate. For families who have a child experiencing wetting accidents (day or night time), this can pose a challenge for both. For the child, they can experience embarrassment and shame, with a fear of having an accident in someone else’s home, or in a different environment (i.e. sleeping in someone else’s bed). For the parent(s) it’s a concern of how to manage the logistics of the wetting accidents. This combined with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season adds stressors for everyone, taking away some of the fun and enjoyment of the season.
Here are some tips to help both you and your child successfully manage this scenario:
- Supplies to have on hand or pack when traveling:
- Waterproof disposable underwear (pull ups) – pack more than you think you will need just in case
- Protective vinyl pants – these look just like regular underwear and can be worn over pull ups for added protection
- Waterproof overlays or disposable underpads – these protective pads have an absorbent layer and a waterproof layer. They can be placed right on top of regular sheets and can be swapped out for a clean one if they become wet or soiled.
- If your child will be sleeping in a sleeping bag, there are waterproof sleeping bag liners available
- Large plastic bags – pack plenty in case of an accident. They help isolate any odor and are a sanitary way to store any wet underwear, pajamas or bedding
- Clothing that is machine washable
- A urine stain or odor remover
- Talk with your child about how to handle an accident if it occurs. Having them involved in the decision making process lessens their embarrassment and gives them a sense of responsibility
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Let your child pick out the waterproof underwear and vinyl pants – stock up on these as these may not be readily available in stores when traveling
- Help them learn how to change their own protective undergarments
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Pack an extra change of clothing and plastic bags in a back pack just in case
- Be prepared – make sure have you and your child knows where the bathroom is and have everything you need on hand so clean up is quick and easy
Though wetting accidents can be a tough topic for many families, incorporating these ideas can help ease the stressors for both you and your child, making the holidays more enjoyable and fun for everyone.
