Have you ever wondered what mothers do when there is not access to diapers? Or what was done before diapers were invented? A growing number of mothers are using what is called infant potty training or IPT with their babies. The approach mimics what mothers throughout the world have done for centuries to deal with the issue of elimination in the absence of diapers.
IPT is virtually unheard of in Western culture, especially in the United States.Many people assume that an infant is incapable of toilet learning since infants are too uncoordinated to sit, walk or talk.Parents often assume that infants are not aware of their bodily functions and cannot control elimination.
Supporters of IPT, believe that it is actually misleading to describe the process as "training" and prefer terms such as "elimination communication," "natural infant hygiene," or "trickle treat."Infants who are taught to control elimination through this method are not actually being "trained" as we think of it since there is no punishment nor are their any rewards.IPT involves bonding with your infant to intuitively learn your baby's unique patterns of communication and conditioning the infant to respond to his/her need for elimination.
IPT basically involves three stages to condition the infant to associate certain cues with the need to eliminate. To begin, a mother must pay careful attention to her baby's elimination patterns.This includes how long the infant eliminates after eating or waking up, any body language the infant gives before eliminating, and any noises the infant makes before or during elimination.Many mothers find it most convenient to do this by using a sling.Baby wearing is ideal for this type of toilet training as it allows you to know immediately when your baby goes.
After you've had opportunity to observe your baby for a week or so, try to begin anticipating when your infant needs to eliminate.When you start to observe some signals from your baby that he/she is going to eliminate, immediately begin making a sound such as "sssss."The baby will quickly learn to associate this sound with the need to eliminate.If your baby starts to go while you are observing her, immediately begin making the sound.Within a few days your baby will start to associate this sound with eliminating.
Finally, when you think your baby needs to go, hold her securely over your preferred toilet place while giving an audible signal (such as "sssss").Your baby will soon associate the sound, words & place with elimination.Use whatever receptacle and location are most convenient.Examples may include the bathroom sink, a mixing bowl, a basin or somewhere outside.Older babies can even sit between your legs on a toilet.
Once you've reached this point, pay close attention to your baby's timing and signals.When you think she needs to go, hold her in position and give your signal.If it is near time to go, infants are able to relax those muscles upon receiving your cues.
Parents who are considering IPT need to begin doing so during pregnancy or during the first few weeks after birth as IPT should ideally begin before 4 months of age.There are many advantages to potty training an infant.The most obvious advantage is that is saves a fortune on diapers, wipes and it is environmentally friendly.
