The idea of potty training infants is beginning to take hold in America. Baby Center says that this idea is also referred to as "elimination communication" or "natural infant hygiene." Whatever a person calls it, the idea is to learn an infant's signals that she needs to go to the bathroom and then put her on the potty to do so. Infant potty training typically begins between birth and 4 months of age. This can cut down on diaper waste and may be more comfortable for the infant, but Baby Center warns that it will take time and focus to get it done.
Watch Baby
The most important thing to do when potty training an infant is to watch him closely. A parent will need to learn the infant's urination and bowel movement patterns, says Baby Center. Keeping a log of this at first can help a parent discover the pattern. Many infants make noises, gestures, specific facial expressions or alter their breathing patterns when they are about to fill their diapers, says Parenting Science. Knowing these cues can help parents get their infant to the potty in time. Additionally, co-sleeping will be necessary if trying to potty train an infant at night because having him close by will help parents recognize nighttime cues that he needs to go to the potty.
Potty Size
Because infants are much smaller than toddlers, the size of the potty needs to be taken into account. Many parents use a small bucket or bowl rather than a training toilet, says Baby Center. A parent will have to hold the infant over the item they are using. Many parents associate using the potty with a specific sound and make that sound when they place their infant on the potty so the infant will eventually learn that the sound means to urinate or have a bowel movement.
Accidents
As with any age, an infant who is potty training is likely to have accidents, says Baby Center. Parents will need to stay positive, be flexible, relaxed and patient throughout the process. Becoming angry or frustrated will hinder the process and could scare the baby. Many parents who potty train their infant use diapers at night and when going out to help cut down on accidents and for more convenience.
