Infant Potty Training!

There is a new trend called infant potty training and as a mother I have to disclose one personal opinion. "They've got to be joking!"

However, there is something to said beyond the eye rolling that will take place when you hear something like this.

Of course, one of the best things about potty training your infant is how much money you will save on diapers. All jokes aside, there's no denying that not only is that helpful to you, the parent, but it is also helpful to the environment. For every parent who decides to potty train an infant... there will be a vast amount of difference in the number of diapers in landfills.

Infant potty training is all about connecting with your child's needs and schedule. This is something parents tend to already do. This method relies solely on the baby's natural rhythms and the communication between parent and child.

Is it possible for a working parent to potty train their infant? Yes, if the babysitter is willing to undergo the same methods of 'pottying' and continue training while the child is in their care. A close friend or family member is more likely in this position.

Is it like 'regular potty training'? Well, this really depends on your method used to potty train. There is no punishment or pressure used what-so-ever. This is a baby led approach.

When should you start? Again, the idea may seem strange but this is a method that should be started as soon as possible. The day you bring the baby home, you can begin this method of infant potty training.

There is a window of learning period that will end around the time the infant's mobility is better developed. Some babies continue to remain receptive beyond this point, but it is better to begin the training as soon as possible.

The ideal time to start is anywhere from birth to 4-5 months old.

Okay, so what do you do? Referring again to the communication between parent and child, you start by anticipating when your child needs to go. Knowing your baby's schedule is a key role in infant potty training. At this moment, or at the moment you observe your baby already starting to go... you make a noise. "Ssss" or "pee-pee" are two suggestion. Your baby will quickly learn to associate the noise with the duty involved.

When you think your infant needs to go, hold them (gently and securely) over your preferred toilet place and make the noise you have declared a signal.

How long does it take? The average age of completion (where your child rarely has accidents anymore) in the West is around 2 years, although babies have good control of elimination for *many* months before completion. For example, some experience few or no soiled diapers from the day they start in early infancy but may need several more months to master control over urination.

"What is Potty Training" Ask.com
Found here.

What type of resources are available to help me learn more about potty training an infant? There are a number of books available to help educate mothers or expecting mothers of and about this earlier practice of potty training.

Infant Potty Training: A Gentle and Primeval Method Adapted To Modern Living
(by Laurie Boucke)
Find it here.

Early-Start Potty Training
(by Linda Sonna)
Find it here.

The Diaper Free Baby
(by Christine Gross-Loh)
Find it here.

Do I need to buy anything special? Surprisingly, this is not another commercially invented developmental method of training. You can use your own toilet, or a regular potty trainer. Whatever you prefer!

There are a large number of advantages to infant potty training. It may sound ridiculous... because we are used to different things. When it comes down to it though, babies are smart... and it is proven possible. Is the idea of potty training your infant really that far fetched?