Have you heard of Elimination Communication? It’s a practice where parents follow their baby’s natural cues to help them pee or poop outside of diapers.
While this might sound unusual at first, EC has been practiced for centuries and is now gaining renewed interest in Germany and other countries.
So let’s find out what this practice is all about with insights from Ayumi Matsuzaka. Ayumi is the co-founder of DYCLE – Diaper Cycle and a certified advisor on “Elimination Communication” and “Elimination and Constipation in Children” by the Institute for Child and Family Elimination Support Japan.
What is Elimination Communication and how does it work?
Elimination Communication (EC) is a practice that involves observing and responding to a baby’s natural elimination signals to provide opportunities for them to go, that is to pee or poop, outside of diapers.
It can be a gentle way to support your baby's natural development and bodily awareness. Here are four key aspects:
1. An Alternative Option for Your Baby
EC offers a gentle choice alongside disposable and cloth diapers. Babies instinctively release waste in open spaces—a natural behavior we can honor by allowing opportunities to eliminate outside of diapers, fostering comfort and freedom.
2. Supporting Natural Development
Exclusively using diapers can teach babies to associate elimination with a confined space, which they often need to "unlearn" around age 3. Practicing EC from birth supports their bodily awareness and organ development without needing to "retrain" later.
3. Building Bonding and Trust
Tuning into your baby’s elimination cues and gently communicating with them—e.g., saying, “Do you feel like going?”—fosters trust, comfort, and a secure bond between you and your child.
4. Focusing on Growth
Parenting is about recognizing how your child grows and supporting their development. Practicing EC encourages mindfulness about your baby’s individual pace and unique journey.
How and When to Get Started with EC
Starting EC can feel like a big step, but it’s all about finding a rhythm that works for you and your baby.
When Can You Start?
When Ready: Begin when you’ve recovered from postpartum fatigue.
Starting Anytime: Trust your instincts—there’s no "wrong" time to try EC.
Great Starting Ages:
When your baby is 2–3 months old: When your baby’s neck is steadier
When your baby is 6 months old: When they can sit with support.
Tools and Tips
- A potty is helpful but not essential; you can use an old towel, a container, or hold your baby over the toilet.
- Waterproof bedding protects against messes.
Finding Your Own Pace
Full-Time: Practicing EC during both day and night.
Part-Time: Focus on certain times, such as mornings or post-meals.
Occasionally: Practice less often, even once a day.
Take breaks when needed, and continue gently until about age 2.
Practical Tips to Implement EC
Incorporating EC into daily life is easier when you understand the best moments to try it.
Common Times for Elimination
- After waking up, during or after breastfeeding, or after meals.
- Before and after bath time.
- During diaper changes or when transitioning out of carriers, car seats, or strollers.
- Before bedtime.
Learning Your Baby’s Timing
- Regular intervals (e.g., every 2–3 hours) can help establish a rhythm.
- Start with short sessions—1–2 minutes is enough.
- Use sound cues, like "pss-pss," for encouragement.
Adjusting to Your Baby’s Cues
Some babies offer clear signs, while others don’t. Focus on suggested timings if cues aren’t clear. Above all, prioritize comfort and trust over catching every elimination.
Maintaining EC at Daycare or While Traveling
Keeping up with EC in different environments can be a challenge, but flexibility is key.
Flexibility Is Key
- It’s okay to pause EC during daycare or travel. Explain gently to your baby why diapers are being used temporarily.
- Ease back into the routine when circumstances change.
Embrace Setbacks
- Breaks are normal, and any effort you’ve made supports your baby’s awareness. Be kind to yourself if challenges arise.
Long-Term Benefits
- EC fosters body awareness and can make potty training easier.
- Your child may transition more smoothly to social toilet use as they grow.
- Your child can build sensory awareness by recognizing bodily cues.
- Can strengthen the parent-child connection through shared communication.
Last but not least, approach elimination communication with joy and flexibility, remembering that what matters most is your presence and care.
Thank You, Ayumi!
