My 11 year-old son still wets the bed every night. We have made the decision to send him to overnight camp. Though I discussed it with his pediatrician and camp director, I am still very nervous and fearful it may not be an enjoyable experience because I won't be there to protect him. Any suggestions on having a more positive outlook?
Answer
I am unclear if your son is looking forward to the camp despite his problem or if he is going to camp because you are insisting. I don't know all of the facts either, such as: Does he have any dry nights? Has he had successful sleepovers with friends? Has he wet the bed while at a sleepover and if so, what was his reaction and what was his friend's reaction? Would he be attending camp with friends who understand his bedwetting problem and who would offer support?
If he has had few dry nights and no support from friends at camp, I don't think going to camp is a good idea. (Drying out a cot or a sleeping bag can hardly be done discreetly.) … There is a product that looks like regular underwear … that is called GoodNites® [Underpants] and can be used in the place of underwear. It is highly absorbent and your son will not get the sheets or sleeping bag wet.
Christopher Cooper
Psychologist
Family Therapist
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