2. Elimination Communication- Naked Green Babies
The go-green crowd believes they have the answer to the age-old parenting hurdle of potty training. Not only are they interested in saving the environment through less diapers in the landfills, but want rid your home of stinky diapers as well, by letting babies go bottomless.
The idea is that babies are aware of their “elimination needs” from birth, and that they are capable of communicating these “needs.” By using body language and various vocalizations, babies can
maintain a connection with their bodily sensations and learn from an early age what to do when they experience those sensations.
Aside from the environmental message, is the notion that by using this method, parents are “removing pressure and punishment from potty training.” As if, potty training is this brutality, inflicted upon children. Granted, there are ignorant parents that expect more than a child is developmentally ready to achieve. But in this method, the only people actually being trained- are the parents.
Any parent that has had to duck as her baby sprang a leak when she reached for a washcloth, will testify that babies may be aware of their “sensations” but there is no control- an essential element in potty training.
Here’s our recommendations for successful potty training:
1. The first sign a child’s bladder is mature enough for potty training is when he or she begins to consistently wake up from naps, or nighttime with a dry diaper.
2. Children must be able to verbally communicate that they need to go to the potty.
3. Children must be able to physically get to the potty by themselves.
Then, at least you have the basics; little bodies that have matured to the point that they can not only feel their “sensations” but also know what to do when they hit.
