Parenting
Expert Advice For Managing Back-To-School Anxiety And Bedwetting
The summer break is still ongoing, yet concerns may already be creeping in about the upcoming school year. Whether your little one is gearing up for their first day at school, returning to a new grade, or possibly transitioning to a different school, the alteration in their daily routine can be unsettling for all kids. Dr. Ranj, a Pediatrician, TV host, and writer, shared insights on how to assist children in alleviating their anxieties and highlighted indicators signaling their nervousness about resuming school, including instances of bedwetting.
What is the prevalence of back-to-school stress?
According to Dr. Ranj, “It’s fair to say that virtually all children, at some point, undergo varying degrees of anxiety when facing the school environment. It’s a nearly universal experience for a large number of kids. Setting foot in school for the first time can be quite overwhelming for them.”
Can school-related anxiety lead to an uptick in nocturnal enuresis?
Recent research by Pampers Ninjamas uncovered that parents of bedwetting children report that changes in routine (62%), nerves (56%), or excitement (35%) linked to commencing or returning to school after summer vacation can heighten the likelihood of bedwetting.
“We understand that any form of life adjustment can yield numerous positive outcomes,” Dr. Ranje elucidates, however, he further states, “unfortunately, it can also lead to less desirable repercussions, with bedwetting being one of them.” Dr. Ranj highlights, “Bedwetting is a common and natural aspect of growing up, but the stress of returning to school can heighten its occurrence.”
In a survey of 1000 caregivers with children aged 4-7, 49% noted more instances of bedwetting at the start of the school year compared to other times.
Is there a gender disparity in bedwetting occurrences?
Dr. Ranj point outs that “bedwetting tends to be more prevalent in boys, for reasons yet unspecified. Nonetheless, it’s an experience shared by most children at some point.”
Should parents fret over bedwetting?
ERIC, the charity focusing on children’s bowel and bladder issues, estimates that 15% of 7-year-olds routinely wet the bed, which is a considerable number. Dr. Ranj clarifies that “Bedwetting is notably more common in those under 5 since they are still grasping bladder control. Typically, for under 5s, it’s an integral part of growth.” Nevertheless, he emphasizes that “past 5 years of age, healthcare professionals are attentive, and per NICE recommendations, if a child over 5 experiences consistent or returning bedwetting after being dry, medical advice should be sought to rule out any underlying medical condition. In most cases, there isn’t any, and there are numerous measures to manage bedwetting repercussions, like utilizing products such as Ninjamas to navigate through the bedwetting phase.”
How does bedwetting affect children heading back to or beginning school?
If pre-school anxiety triggers bedwetting, it can lead to self-assurance issues, especially among older children. Dr. Ranj observes, “One-third of parents mentioned that if their child experienced bedwetting the preceding night, they were less eager to attend school the next day.” He also notes that bedwetting impacts three-quarters of children’s confidence. He points out that “as children grow older, they may become more self-conscious about it, impacting their confidence, academic performance, and desire to attend school.”
Indicators of potential school-related anxiety
Pampers’ recent study revealed that concerning school beginnings or returns, 64% of children are primarily anxious about separation from their parents or caregivers, 55% worry about obeying teacher instructions, and 60% feel nervous about interacting with unfamiliar peers.
Bedwetting serves as a clear sign of underlying anxiety in children, although subtler (or sometimes overt) shifts can also be observed. Dr. Ranj advises, “Behavior changes, increased defiance, disturbances in sleep patterns, and alterations in eating habits could indicate stress.” He underscores that “Any form of stress can influence sleep, appetite, and behavior.”
Guidelines to assist children in school readiness
According to Dr. Ranj, “the initial step must involve conversing. Engage in open dialogs. It won’t just be one chat, but numerous discussions that you will revisit on several occasions.” He suggests that guardians should “establish an environment where your kid can express any apprehensions they may have without the fear of criticism. Without the fear of reprimand. Allow them to freely share their concerns and most of the time, you can address them early on.”
If, however, they are not anxious about any specific issue, and it might not pertain to school, Dr. Ranj recommends, still “create that secure space, initiate that dialogue, check in with them, inquire about their well-being. Is there anything troubling them? That’s an excellent starting point.”
Another suggestion is to identify the optimal moment to engage with your child. Dr. Ranj proposes, “when they commence school, if you are engaged in the school run, that presents an ideal opportunity to have those discussions. The journey back from school is a great time to chat.” Other effective conversation starters can originate from children’s literature and television. For instance, Dr. Ranj highlights, “if there’s a narrative you encounter online or on screen, these can serve as excellent catalysts for initiating conversations.”
Above all, Dr. Ranj emphasizes, “it’s about instilling a sense of security in your child and enabling them to confide in you without the fear of being scolded, as that is the main impediment. Parents need not be therapists, but through dialogue, a lot of positive outcomes can be achieved.” Regarding bedwetting, whether provoked by school-related anxiety or not, Dr. Ranj mentions, “let them understand that accidents are normal, there’s no need for shame or embarrassment, and you can address it together. Most children will overcome it. Foster their confidence that things will improve and the situation is not permanent.”
Initiating Conversations Effectively
Engaging in conversations with children and establishing a safe space to communicate is crucial, but how do you commence those discussions, particularly with older children who lean towards privacy. Dr. Ranj recommends, ask questions, substitute “worry” with “sadness,” and inquire, ‘what caused your sadness?’ He also suggests commencing with positive aspects. Inquire about enjoyable experiences and reasons for happiness. Then, inquire about any sources of sadness. Adjust the approach based on the child’s age. It’s essential for parents to avoid being judgmental and when dealing with bedwetting, always remind your child that it’s typical, it will improve, and work together on finding solutions. Moreover, Dr. Ranj mentions that you can also attempt rewarding dry nights and involve them in changing wet bedding, rewarding them for their help. The NHS also recommends, “establishing rewards for positive behaviors, like a sticker each time they use the toilet before bedtime.”
Should Older Children Wear Diapers for Bedwetting?
Bedwetting is distressing and humiliating, and while your child is grappling with it, to alleviate the impact and enable them to navigate their school days and weeks without anxiety, you can introduce nighttime diapers, such as pull-up pants tailored for older children. Dr. Ranj recommends Pampers Ninjamas. He indicates, “they do not resemble pull-up pants. They offer discretion.” He also advises to refrain from terming them as diapers, calling them special garments or a similar name. Ninjamas cater to children up to 12 years and are crafted to not look or feel like a diaper. A child should not feel awkward or different wearing them.” However, he underscores that “they are not a permanent fix for bedwetting; it’s crucial to remember that. They function as a tool to manage its aftermath and prevent children from feeling ashamed about it.” They prevent discomfort, waking up in a cold, damp bed is unpleasant for anyone. Dr. Ranj notes, “the comfort of having them can sometimes offer reassurance, imparting a bit more confidence, especially when away from home.”
The Journal for Boosting Confidence as Kids Head Back to School
With the summer break winding down, if you observe your youngster feeling anxious or expressing worries, such as bedwetting, using a journal can prove invaluable. Pampers Ninjamas has initiated a campaign called “Back to School with a Boost,” presenting parents the chance to get a complimentary confidence-inspiring journal created for 4-7-year-olds by Dr. Kimberley Bennett, a child psychologist. According to Dr. Bennett, “Addressing bedwetting can be a sensitive matter, and this journal serves as a helpful tool to facilitate meaningful conversations about emotions.”
Dr. Ranj praises the journal for its diverse activities suitable for various age groups. He emphasizes that it assists children in managing emotions, dealing with challenges, and acknowledging achievements in an engaging manner.
The journal, offered at no cost, provides guidance for parents, imaginative activities for kids, and aids in preparing them for the school transition. Dr. Ranj underscores the importance of resources like these in supporting children’s mental wellness, particularly concerning bedwetting, advocating for its inclusive nature and hands-on approach.
Guide to Introducing Journaling to Kids
Dr. Ranj emphasizes the role of the journal in enhancing children’s confidence during the back-to-school period, making it a regular part of their routine akin to school books. He stresses its universal appeal for all children, not just those facing bedwetting issues, suggesting embedding it in daily activities for optimal impact.
Using Journals for Meaningful Parent-Child Discussions
Dr. Ranj encourages parents to view the journal as a platform for bonding and initiating dialogues that might otherwise be challenging. It serves as a catalyst for deeper conversations and provides a shared activity space for parents and children.
Celebrity advocate Billie Faiers, a TV personality and mother, supports the journal’s role in boosting child confidence, especially for those coping with bedwetting issues, promoting open discussions and emotional well-being.
What is the typical duration of school stress and bedwetting?
If your little one is grappling with pre-school nerves and nocturnal enuresis, it can be overwhelming for all involved and you may ponder when it will cease. Dr. Ranj mentions, “It’s challenging to predict, as each child is unique, and it hinges on the underlying causes and the child’s circumstances as to how long the bedwetting and anxiety will persist. For most children, they usually resolve within a few months.” You can provide them support through dialogue, bedwetting aids, and utilizing the diary.
Nonetheless, he also emphasizes, “More importantly, it’s not about the duration but ensuring there are no latent medical reasons if it recurs or emerges after a dry period. The crucial focus is if your child is above 5 and experiences bedwetting, then seek advice. If the resolution is prolonged, then seek guidance.”
How can you acquire a Back to School with a Boost journal?
If you wish to get a diary for your youngster, whether they are resuming school or commencing this September, you can purchase or download one from the Pampers Ninjago website.
