Elimination Communication - What Is It and How Does It Work?

Elimination communication is the new phrase on the potty-training block. In short, it means showing and teaching your baby how to eliminate into a potty or toilet from as young as birth.

Although this might sound insane, when we looked into it, it turns out that the whole process makes a lot of sense. Diapers are a modern-day invention and babies, just like us, prefer not to soil themselves - makes sense, right?

In this post, we’ll cover the basics of elimination communication - what is it and how does it work? 

What is elimination communication?

Elimination communication is a process whereby we learn to tune into our babies cries, needs, and start to recognise when they might be letting us know that they need to pee or poop. Often, when our babies are upset and irritated, the last thing we check is their diaper - which is usually wet, full of poop, and causing them great discomfort.

Why elimination communication?

This process of toilet-training our babies helps us to develop a stronger bond with them as it requires us to spend more time getting to know their unique cues and behaviours. When we are able to recognise more effectively what it is that our baby wants, we can respond to their needs faster and, as a result, create a beautiful connection with them. Tuning in to your baby’s needs in this way can help them to gain confidence whilst learning that what they communicate is important to you. 

Elimination communication can speed up potty training by 18 months! You’ll have fewer nappies to change, and because of this your nose, your baby, and the planet will thank you.

Imagine that, a baby asking to use the potty at 6 months of age...well, we’re here to tell you that it ispossible. 

How does elimination communication work?

We’ve already looked at the fact that elimination communication works through, you guessed it, communication! As well as being tuned into your baby’s needs. But how can we get started with it?

Here are a few simple steps to get you started on your nappy-free journey: 

Let your baby spend some time diaper-free, every day, on a waterproof floor or cover that won’t get ruined by poop or pee. Learn to read the cues that your baby gives you before they need to eliminate.

Introduce an elimination cue- every time they poop or pee, make a noise like “pssssss” or “hmmmmm” as well as using a hand gesture. Your baby will quickly learn and start using these cues so that they can notify you when it’s time to head to the toilet!

Keep a potty nearby to make sure that your child has easy access. If your baby can crawl, they might start making their way to the potty unassisted once they understand its use.

Babywearing can help you to recognise your baby’s cues - often, babies won’t eliminate when being held close so may start to fidget and cry when they need to use the potty.

Have you ever considered or had any success with elimination communication? Let us know in the comments!