Tuning in to your baby: A gentle introduction to elimination communication
In a world where disposable diapers are the norm and potty training is often delayed until toddlerhood, Elimination Communication (EC) offers a refreshing and intuitive alternative. EC is the practice of observing your baby’s natural signals and rhythms around peeing and pooping, and gently responding by offering a potty or toilet instead of relying solely on diapers.
My personal journey with EC began when my daughter was just three months old. At that time, I simply began observing her, noticing the moments she seemed to need to go, like after waking or feeding. At four months, I felt confident enough to start offering her the potty whenever I noticed these cues. Now, at almost nine months old, she shows clear signs when she needs to go and uses the toilet regularly. It’s incredible how capable and communicative our babies can be when we give them the chance.
If you’re curious to begin, here are a few gentle tips to get started:
1. Observe first
Spend a few days just watching your baby. You’ll likely notice patterns. Many babies need to go after waking, after feeding, or during certain times of the day.
2. Use cue sounds
When offering the potty, use a consistent sound like “psss” for pee. Over time, your baby will associate the sound with the action.
3. Keep it relaxed
This is not about being perfect or rigid. It’s about deepening the connection between you and your baby. Some days it works beautifully, other days less so, and that’s completely okay.
4. Start small
You don’t need to go all in. Even one or two potty opportunities a day can make a difference, like in the morning or after naps.
5. Embrace sustainability
One of the often overlooked benefits of EC is that it’s more environmentally friendly and cost effective. You’ll use fewer disposable diapers, and it works beautifully in combination with cloth diapers as you practice.
6. Support early independence
By tuning in early, you’re naturally supporting your baby’s toilet awareness. Many EC families experience earlier potty independence, reducing stress later on.
At the heart of EC is trust. Trusting your baby’s innate intelligence and trusting yourself as a parent. It’s not just about toileting. It’s about presence, connection, and communication—the foundation of our parenting journey.
What's Your Reaction?
