Our parenting style is one that embraces intuition and nurturing, and for this reason we started the potty training odyssey a little early, at about 20 months when we observed that our son was interested in the goings on in the bathroom. We switched to open-door bathroom proceedings. We enthusiastically read books about the potty, listened to songs about the potty, and even convinced Dad to sit down to pee! All of these steps paid off in the end, but upon further reflection, could we have avoided any of the stress and started even earlier—as early as Day 1?

 

Infant potty training--often referred to as “elimination communication (EC)” or “natural infant hygiene”, is making small inroads and growing in popularity among parents who wish to take a more gentle and natural approach to training. In many parts of the world, this method has been widely adopted; however, it has been largely dismissed by Western pediatricians who recommend waiting until children show interest in the potty—usually after 24 months.

 

In the simplest of terms, the process of elimination communication (EC) involves observing a baby’s signals over time and learning to anticipate and meet the baby’s need to go to the potty—with assistance of course! These signs may include squirming, fussing, twitching, kicking off blankets, passing gas, or a look of sheer concentration (we’ve all seen that, haven’t we?!) Parents can also teach babies cue sounds or hand signs for the potty before verbal communication is established. This early exposure to the potty teaches babies to associate it with relieving themselves, and they need not struggle to learn a different procedure when the time comes to do it independently.

 

Elimination communication can take a lot of the stress and pressure out of potty training a toddler. If a child is used to using the potty from the very beginning, it’ll be a natural and smooth transition as they develop the fine motor skills to pull down their pants, sit, and wash their hands independently. No power struggles, no tantrums. Babies just grow into it naturally. Think of a child who is spoon-fed their solids in the beginning. As they develop their grasping skills they insist on doing it themselves!

 

Another benefit to practicing EC is the smaller cost—for the wallet and for the environment. An average baby goes through an estimated 5-7,000 diapers in the span of 3 years. That’s a lot of money and a lot of garbage in a landfill. Parents and children practicing EC use fewer diapers (if at all), and enjoy the freedom of potty independence at a much earlier age.

 

As a mom who has gone through the agony of toilet training a toddler, I must admit that the concept of EC is very intriguing. Through close observation, we truly get to know our babies, and forge a strong and lasting bond. With this kind of approach, it’s the parent that toilet trains, and not the child. I harbour no illusions and know that it will take a heck of a lot of dedication, perseverance, and vinegar. But with the onus on us parents, it means no pressure, stress, or embarrassment for our children. And that’s reason enough for me to try. Next time. 

 

Whichever path you choose to follow, best of luck in your endeavours. And don’t forget to wash your hands. 

 

 

 

 

 -- Sarah Simpson

   sarah@babyontheway.ca