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What is Elimination Communication?
Elimination Communication - it's quite a mouthful! You can call it ECing for short ;)
EC is also called infant potty training, natural infant hygiene, and diaper free.
It's about raising your baby without diapers - or with minimal use of diapers.
In March of 2009 I did an "EC Q & A" session with Marija of ECWear.com - you can listen to or download our EC Q & A.
Read about my experience using elimination communication with my 3rd baby in Brennan's EC Journal and see his EC Charts.
I'm also posting regular updates on things are going with my diaper free new baby, Galen:
Here's a video of me and Galen when he was 5 days old (Scott is commentating from behind the camera!):
Baby is Aware - and Mama is Aware
People the world over have cared for infant elimination without diapers. They even do it without the baby wetting or soiling everything!
This natural means of caring for babies also brings baby and caregiver in tune with each other. It's a powerful way to connect with your baby and it's simple to get elimination communication started.
Babies are very responsive to having "potty help." They're aware of elimination, despite what you've been told. Babies are adaptive and learn to go where parents and other caregivers teach them - if they haven't been trained to use diapers!
Start at the Beginning (or Later!)
You can begin from the moment of birth to observe your baby's elimination communication. It's much the same as watching for hunger cues. You can also begin EC with your older baby!
In the early days you may rely on timing in relation to feeding. You can give a vocal cue, such as a gentle "ssssss" sound, when you notice your infant eliminating.
Babies can learn to use the big potty, a small potty seat, sinks, or small containers designated for their use. They will even come to understand that the supportive position you hold them in is a "potty position!"
Elimination Communication is Clean
If you choose to EC your baby will use a container - be that a toilet, a child's potty, or a small bowl. You'll be able to flush away your baby's waste without another thought.
You won't need to carry diapers around or worry about finding a clean changing table. You can just EC while you are out. If your baby wears a diaper while you are out you can still offer the potty - or you may come home with dry pants!
Your baby stays clean. He doesn't have to sit in urine and he doesn't have to have his own waste smeared all over him. You can wipe your baby with toilet paper, give a quick swipe with a wipe, or do a quick rinse under running water - and that's it!
It's Comfortable
Surely soft cotton diapers are more comfortable than paper and plastic disposables. But no diaper at all is the most comfortable. Your baby is free from wetness and waste and has no uncomfortable bulk between his legs or belly.
Some mothers have noticed that their babies spit up less when diaper free and seem more content in general.
It's much more comfortable for a baby to use the bathroom when held in a gentle squatting position than when in a diaper. Imagine trying to go to the bathroom when sitting on the floor, or when lying down!
Even nighttime and naptimes can be comfy diaper free experiences with a little planning.
It's Only Natural
Elimination communication is a natural and wonderful way to respond to your baby's elimination needs. It is deeply satisfying and helps build an intense bond with your infant. And remember you can always use diapers as backup.
Elimination communication is something all parents should consider. Read the information I've collected and decide if it's right for you. You can also read the review I wrote on Diaper Free! an excellent gentle baby care manual focused on elimination communication.
