Bedwetting: What Babysitters Need to Know

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As a babysitter, bedtime can sometimes come with surprises—like bedwetting. While it might feel a little awkward at first, it’s actually very normal for younger kids. This blog will help you understand why it happens, how to handle it calmly, and even give you a few ideas to make bedtime a more positive experience for the child.

What Is Bedwetting?

Bedwetting (also called nocturnal enuresis) is when a child accidentally pees in their sleep. It’s most common in kids between 4 and 7 years old, but some kids take a bit longer to grow out of it.

Bedwetting is not the child’s fault. They’re not being lazy or bad—it usually happens because:

  • They’re deep sleepers and don’t wake up when their bladder is full.

  • Their body is still learning how to stay dry overnight.

  • They’re feeling nervous, stressed, or in a new routine.

  • It runs in the family (their parents may have done the same thing as kids).

What Babysitters Can Do

Here’s how you can help:

1. Stay Calm and Kind

If a child wets the bed, be gentle. Don’t scold or tease them—just help clean up and move on. It’s already embarrassing for them.

2. Be Prepared

Before bedtime:

  • Ask the parents if the child sometimes wets the bed.

  • Know where clean sheets, pajamas, and towels are kept.

  • Use a mattress protector if one is available.

3. Encourage Good Habits

Some small steps can help reduce bedwetting:

  • Remind the child to use the bathroom right before bed.

  • Limit drinks about an hour before bedtime (especially juice or soda).

  • Keep a nightlight on so they can find the bathroom if they wake up.

Fun and Helpful Ideas

Making nighttime routines positive can really help! Try these babysitter-friendly tips:

🌟 Bedtime Routine Chart

Make a fun checklist with pictures:

  • Go potty

  • Brush teeth

  • Put on PJs

  • Storytime

  • Lights out

Kids love checking things off—it helps them feel in control.

🎯 Reward Jar

Use a simple reward system:

  • One marble or sticker in the jar for every dry night.

  • When the jar is full, they get a small prize or extra storytime!

(Just be sure to check with the parents first before using rewards.)

🧸 Comfort Items

Let the child choose a favorite stuffed animal or bedtime book. Feeling safe and relaxed can make a big difference.

If Bedwetting Happens

  • Stay cool. It’s not a big deal—just help them change clothes and sheets.

  • Don’t make a fuss. The less attention it gets, the better they’ll feel.

  • Say something kind. A simple, “That’s okay, let’s get you comfy again,” goes a long way.

  • Tell the parents after your shift in a calm and respectful way, especially if it’s new behavior.

    Final Thoughts

    Bedwetting is normal and usually goes away with time. As a babysitter, your patience, kindness, and calm attitude can make bedtime easier and help the child feel confident—even after a little accident.

    By using positive routines and being prepared, you’re giving the child a safe space to grow. That’s something parents will really appreciate—and kids will remember.

    At Delta Emergency Support Training, we’re here to support all of our newly certified Red Cross Babysitters! If you have any questions or need help handling tricky situations like bedwetting, don’t hesitate to reach out. And if you’re thinking about becoming a certified babysitter, we’d love to help you get started with one of our friendly, experienced instructors.

    You're never alone—we’ve got your back!