Watching your kids grow up can be tough, especially if they're dealing with a condition like incontinence. It can be hard for kids to understand and deal with, and they might feel embarrassed or anxious about it.

But don't worry, there are things you can do to help. By teaching your child how to respond to questions and comments, you can help them feel more confident and less stressed.

Incontinence, peer pressure and bullying

It can be tough when kids with incontinence face teasing or bullying. The best way to help them is to talk openly and honestly about their condition. Let them know that many other kids experience the same thing.

Reassure them that it's okay to feel embarrassed or upset. If they're being bullied, they should tell you or a teacher right away.

By talking about it and understanding their condition, your child can feel more confident and less worried about what other kids might say.

How kids can communicate like a pro

It's a good idea to help your child practice how to answer questions about their incontinence.

They could say something simple like, "I have a condition that makes me need to pee more than you might need to," or "My bladder can be a bit unpredictable."

If they don't want to talk about it, it's okay to change the subject. They don't owe anyone an explanation.

Practising different scenarios at home can help your child feel more confident and prepared.

Give your kids the facts

Knowledge is power. Teach your child facts about incontinence so they can educate their peers, turning potentially awkward moments into opportunities for advocacy.
For instance, knowing that some celebrities, such as Samuel L Jackson and have overcome similar challenges can provide a morale boost and serve as a powerful tool in normalising their condition.

This is also a good segue into introducing incontinence aids into your child’s everyday routine - if their incontinence diagnosis is new and they don’t yet use products!

Our Nundies Youth Pants are created for kids and teens from 4 to 15 years old and are designed with 3-channel absorbency superpowers! This clever design rapidly absorbs and dries liquid to keep your little one comfortable between changes.

They’ve also got some pretty cool odour-busting technology that neutralises smells for up to 12 hours, making Nundies ideal for both daytime and nighttime use! Just make sure if worn during the day they’re changed as soon as possible after they’re wet or soiled.

They’re also super slimline so when your child wears them they’ll feel like regular undies and won’t be noticeable under their clothes or uniform.

Click here to find what sets Nundies Youth Pants apart from other brands of kids’ continence aids.

Build a support network

Encourage your child to develop relationships with supportive and understanding friends. Involvement in activities and groups where they feel accepted and valued can improve their confidence.

Support groups within the community can also connect your child with others facing similar challenges, providing a safe space to share experiences and coping strategies. Your child’s doctor may have some recommendations, so it’s worth chatting with them about it.

Addressing social challenges of childhood incontinence

Let's make sure your child feels comfortable and confident, even when things get tough. Here's how to create a supportive home environment:

Creating an inclusive environment

Advocate for supportive measures at your child’s school and home such as unrestricted bathroom access and understanding from teachers, staff and family.

Dealing with bullying

Equip your child with strategies to handle bullying. Encourage them to speak to a trusted adult if they feel threatened or teased. Whether that be their own siblings, cousins, friends or just another kid in their class, your child deserves to feel safe no matter what.

Let your child know you are there to support them and that there are anonymous resources out there too if they feel more comfortable seeking support that way:

• SOS Amitié: Call 09 72 39 40 50 (24/7 helpline)
• Suicide Écoute: Call 01 45 39 40 00 (24/7 helpline)
• Fil Santé Jeunes: Call 0800 235 236 (free helpline for young people)

For emergencies, call 112.

Ensure they know they are never alone and help is always available.

Promoting self-esteem

Let's help your child feel good about themselves. Focus on their strengths and remind them that they're awesome, no matter what.

Childhood incontinence can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold your child back. By talking openly about it and teaching them how to handle questions, we can help them feel more confident and less worried about what others think.

Remember, your child is not alone. With your support, they can overcome challenges and live a happy, fulfilling life.