Getting through the night without a nappy is a huge milestone for children and parents alike. But what happens after that first dry night or even a few nights in a row? The truth is, the journey doesn’t stop there. Every child’s experience looks different, and even once they’re dry, some children still need support for a while. And that’s completely normal.
Every Child’s Journey is Different
We asked our followers on Instagram about their children’s nighttime toilet habits after dropping night nappies. Here’s what they told us:
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14% said their child got up and went to the toilet independently
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60% said their child woke them up for help going to the toilet during the night
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26% said it’s a mix of both
This shows there’s no single “right” path, just lots of different versions of normal.
One parent shared:
"With my first, I found in super early days post night nappy that having a little portable potty in her room for a little while would help her go independently if she felt the toilet was too far or was a bit scared to go in the dark."
Another told us:
"My 5-year-old gets up on her own and goes to the toilet, she used to shout us to take her until recently. My 7-year-old boy still soaking his pull up every night, have booked a trip to the GP to see what to do next as it's starting to bother him."
Both experiences are completely valid and both highlight just how varied this stage can be.
Why Some Children Still Need Support
Even if they’re dry at night, many children continue to wake their parents for help. Reasons can include:
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Deep sleeping – they may not fully wake up enough to manage alone
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Confidence – some feel nervous going to the bathroom in the dark
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Habit – they’re simply used to seeking you out at night
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Body readiness – accidents can still happen until their bladder control matures
From my own experience, our kids who are 6 and 8 still often come and find me. Even when they're perfectly able to use the toilet during the day. My youngest especially seems like she's awake but she never remembers waking up at night and I often have to direct her to the bathroom.
Practical Tips to Make Nighttime Wees Easier
There are small things you can do to make this stage smoother for both you and your child:
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Keep a potty in the bedroom – for quick, half-asleep trips
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Choose easy-to-manage clothing – so they don’t struggle in the night
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Keep things calm and simple – guide them gently and avoid too much talking to help them settle back to sleep
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Use waterproof sheets – for peace of mind if accidents still happen
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Build independence gradually – some children just need a little more time
One mum told us:
"We use one of your sheets which is fab for when she does have an accident but it's rare. The potty is in her room and she shouts every night either once or twice for us to go watch her and if we don't go she cries! I'm currently pregnant so taking me over an hour to get back to sleep!"
Another said:
"He goes by himself but then just sits there if it's a poop not saying anything so I luckily hear him and go to him, I think he doesn't wanna wake anyone."
These stories show that even when children can do it, they may still need you for comfort or reassurance.
This Phase Will Pass
It can feel exhausting at times, especially if you’re still being woken once or twice a night. But remember, the phrase you have probably heard throughout parenting “this is just a phase” As annoying as this might be to hear with all stages of parenting this time it is true! As your child’s body matures, they’ll gradually gain confidence and independence.
If accidents are frequent or your child is older and still wetting the bed regularly, a chat with your GP can offer reassurance and advice. But in most cases, it’s simply part of their developmental journey.
Whether your child is sprinting off to the bathroom independently, calling you for help, or doing a bit of both, they’re all on their own perfectly normal path. Trust the process, offer gentle support, and know that independence will come with time.
You’re not doing anything wrong. Your child isn’t behind. This is just one more step in their unique journey.
