Eight in 10 parents say bedwetting affects kids’ school attendance and confidence

Eight in 10 parents believe bedwetting has impacted their child’s time at school – resulting in increased tiredness, reluctance in attending school and reduced confidence.

A poll of 1,000 parents of children aged four to seven who have wet the bed in the last 12 months found it has had a negative effect on the emotional wellbeing of 59 per cent of affected kids.

And it’s left them more likely to experience tiredness in class (43 per cent) and express a reluctance in attending school (39 per cent), while 63 per cent are less confident at school as a result of bedwetting.

It also emerged 84 per cent of parents feel it also affects their child’s self-confidence in general.

With 54 per cent of kids worried about attending sleepovers (54 per cent), playdates (23 per cent) and birthday parties (21 per cent), due to bedwetting.

The research was commissioned by Pampers Ninjamas [https://www.ninjamas-pyjama-pants.pampers.co.uk/], which is continuing its mission to build confidence in children with its Back to School with a Boost schools programme and Confidence Building Journal.

It comes after the study found 67 per cent of parents have highlighted a need for better educational resources around bedwetting.

With 80 per cent requiring resources to specifically support with the emotional impact that bedwetting can have on their child.

Since the launch of the schools programme six months ago, 600+ schools have signed up and it has reached over 64,000 children nationally.

Paediatrician, TV presenter and author Dr Ranj, who has partnered with the pyjama pant brand, said: “School and social activities play an indisputable role in a child’s development, not to mention the contribution they make to their confidence and wellbeing.

“It is therefore essential that parents and carers feel equipped to help support their children during periods of bedwetting to ensure no child misses out.”

The study also found 34 per cent of parents, polled via OnePoll, said their children experience bedwetting up to three times a week, with 91 per cent saying bedwetting disrupts their child’s sleep in some way.

Strategies parents try to help manage bedwetting include using a waterproof mattress (62 per cent), limiting liquids before bedtime (61 per cent) and using protective underwear (47 per cent).

As part of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, Pampers Ninjamas hosted a Confidence Boosting Workshop to raise awareness of the positive impact the programme can have on the emotional wellbeing of children.

Dr Kimberley added: “I am so proud to be helping parents and carers create a safe, non-judgmental space for communicating with their child.

“Ensuring that children feel supported at every step of their developmental journey, including periods of bedwetting for some children, can have a hugely positive impact on their confidence and wellbeing.”