Ahh, sleepovers! A rite of passage for many kids, full of giggles, games, and staying up way too late. But for some—like those managing incontinence, sensory sensitivities, or social stress—they can bring a bit of anxiety too.

The good news? With a little prep and a few confidence tricks, your child can enjoy sleepovers in a way that works for them. Let’s talk about how to keep things fun, comfy, and low-pressure.

1. Choose the Right Sleepover Spot

Not all sleepovers are the same—and that’s totally okay. For kids who are managing things like incontinence, sensory sensitivities, or social overwhelm, the setting can make a huge difference.

Start small. A sleepover with a trusted grandparent, cousin, or close family friend can be a gentle way to ease in. Think of it as a trial run before the big group sleepover comes along.

Bonus tip: A quick chat with the hosting grown-up can go a long way. You don’t have to overshare—just a little info about your child’s routine or comfort items can help them feel supported if they need it.

2. Sleepover Kit Made Easy

Packing smart is key! The aim? Keep it chill, comfy, and confidence-boosting. Here’s what to pop in their overnight bag:

• Protective underwear or pull-ups – Try pants that feel like regular undies and that won’t leak through during the night, like Nundies.
• Disposable waterproof bed underpads or protectors – Light, absorbent, and easy to toss.
• A discreet bag for disposal – A simple ziplock bag does the trick.
• A spare pair of pyjamas – Just in case!
• Wipes and a small towel – Handy for freshening up.
• A cosy sleeping bag – Extra layer = extra backup, and it blends right in.
  
  

3. The Confidence Pep Talk

Mindset matters! Remind your child that everyone has something they deal with whether it’s allergies, snoring, or needing night lights. Leaks are just one of those things, and it doesn’t define them.

Practice some go-to phrases they can use if the topic comes up. Something like, “It’s no big deal—just helps me stay comfy,” or “I wear these to help me sleep better,” can keep things casual and move the conversation along.

4. Have a Backup Plan

Leaks happen. No drama. The trick is helping your kid know what to do if it does.
Walk them through their plan—where to go, what to grab, and how to sort things out quietly. A little torch or night light in their bag makes bathroom trips easy without waking the whole house.

If they’re feeling extra nervous, a quick text check-in from you can work wonders. Just knowing you’re there (even from afar) can be the comfort they need to roll over and get back to sleep.

5. Normalise It!

One in ten kids over the age of five experience some form of incontinence [1], yet it’s rarely talked about. Help your child understand they’re not alone. If they have a trusted friend, sharing (if they’re comfortable) can actually be a huge help. 

Also, remind them that their friends are probably too busy eating popcorn and watching movies to notice what’s happening around them. 

6. Trial Runs at Home

If your kid’s feeling unsure, start with a “sleepover” in your own living room. Let them roll out the sleeping bag, pack their own overnight bag, and go through their usual bedtime routine — just like they would at a friend’s house.

It’s a low-pressure way to build confidence, test out their kit, and spot anything they might need (like an extra pair of undies or a better torch). Plus, it turns prep into play — and that makes the whole thing feel way less scary. Think of it as a dress rehearsal, but with popcorn.

7. Keep the Fun Front & Centre! 

At the end of the day, sleepovers are about fun not fear. Encourage your child to focus on the good stuff: the games, the giggles, the snacks! Help them plan some fun activities they can look forward to, so their excitement outweighs any anxiety.

Ready, Set, Sleepover!

Having incontinence doesn’t mean missing out on the best parts of childhood. With a little preparation, the right mindset, and a solid game plan, your child can head into their next sleepover feeling confident and carefree.

So go ahead, send out those RSVP texts and let your child enjoy the magic of a great sleepover. Leaks or no leaks, they’ve totally got this!


Disclaimer:
This blog is intended for general information and support only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child is experiencing ongoing incontinence or you have concerns about their health, please speak with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider. Every child is different — and you're doing a great job finding what works best for yours.