Starting with an Older Baby

Over six months

* Switch to cloth diapers. Your baby will be better able to feel the sensation of wetness in cloth diapers.

* Be patient. Your baby has grown accustomed to diapers, it will take time to unlearn that and begin to associate eliminating with the potty or toilet. Try having your child sit on the potty with a diaper on or open the diaper up and place it inside the potty if it helps your child feel more comfortable.

* Have an "open door" policy to the bathroom. Modeling is such an important way kids learn, so it really helps to see the toilet being used. Try offering the potty at the same time you are using the toilet.

* Do what works for your family. There are different ways to EC, not one right way. You might find that you and your baby's EC needs change over time, even day to day.

* Stay focused on the communication and not the outcome. Use words or sign language to talk about using the toilet or potty and remember this is a cooperative, not a coercive, process.

* Think of each opportunity as a learning experience. Take time to notice behaviors, expressions, or habits that may be related to your baby's eliminations