Behaviour modification is more effective than discipline to stop bedwetting

Behavior modification simply means that you train your child or teach your child to wake up in time to go to the bathroom. Behaviour modification is considered the most effective way to help a child with bedwetting, as it actually teaches a child to wake up in time rather than just treating the symptoms of bedwetting.

Parents should not take behavior modification to mean that bedwetting is a behavioral problem that needs rigorous correction to fix. Nothing could be further from the truth. Rather, behavior modification works more by teaching your child the nighttimes bladder control that most children learn sooner or later. There are many types of behavior modification tips that have been proven effective in helping children overcome bedwetting:

Discipline will not work

Many years ago, it was thought that children who wet the bed were simply poorly taught, were developmentally delayed (or otherwise abnormal) or just needed more discipline. Even though most parents know better today, many still look at bedwetting as a way of acting out.

It is important not to discipline your child for wetting the bed. This method not only does not work, but the stress of the discipline may make the problem worse. No child wants to wet the bed after everyone else can stay dry for the night. The child who has a hard time not wetting the bed needs sympathy and help, not discipline.

Offer positive reinforcement and praise

When your child makes it through nights without wetting the bed, be sure to offer praise. Not only will this help the child if he or she feels bad when accidents happen, but it will subconsciously motivate your child to continue trying to correct the problem as well.

A system as simple as offering gold stars is effective. A week that is dry should be given a slightly larger treat. You can also use a points system. Have each star or dry night count for a point. When your child reaches three points, allow him or her to have a small treat. Five points can mean a very small gift. Ten points can mean a trip someplace fun, and so on. Keep points posted where they are visible. The excitement generated by this system will encourage your child to keep trying and press on.