It was on one of our Breastfeeding Blogtalk radio shows that I first heard of the ‘Diaper Free Baby’.

And I noticed some resistance bubbling up at the idea of using a potty with tiny babies. What came to mind first was the image of over enthusiastic parents putting pressure on children to preform before they are ready.

Thankfully, I have come to realize now that embracing my resistance always opens doors into new delights. So I ordered the book ‘The Diaper Free Baby’ and during the pregnancy got stuck in.

 I liked the ideas behind Elimination Communication. The intention is not to toilet train your baby. Rather it’s about tuning into your baby’s communication and responding to that. I loved the gentleness of it and we both felt excited about trying this approach with the girls. However, following the cesarean, I didn’t have the energy for anything ‘extra’. Apart from the physical recovery I had to learn the very basics about being a mum to my lovely girls. From day one though the girls peed when we were changing nappies so we made the ‘pssshh’ sound bringing their attention to what was happening.

A few weeks ago I decided to order the potties. And on St. Valentine’s day we presented them for the first time.When they woke up (which invariably happens at the same time for both), we placed them on the potties. Most of us relieve ourselves soon after waking up. Babies are the same. Within a couple of minutes we could hear them urinating. I was in shock. I never thought it could be that easy.

 At the moment we usually present the potty first thing in the morning and at nappy changes. We use the American Sign Language sign for potty when we do so. We also give them an opportunity to use the potty when we see them pushing. Indeed most poos now take place in the potty. Such dignitiy for these tiny bums. They love it too. If they indicate that they want to get off we oblidge immediately.It doesn’t matter to me when they are toilet trained. I just love the idea of helping my girls tune into their bodily functions and to feel comfortable letting go of what they don’t need with ease and freedom. These are messages that I really want them to have in their cells.  

This experience has made me reflect on our expectations and I began to wonder are there other ways in which I have underestimated my girls and babies in general.

My intention now is to make decisions that honor their wisdom, intelligence, unique rhythm, path and love of discovering this world.

Click here for more information on Elimination Communication.

In joy,

Deirdre Morris