If you’ve ever heard of “Elimination Communication” and thought it sounded like a New Age parenting trend—or something involving crystals and a potty—you’re not alone. But this method of toileting babies without diapers has roots deeper than any trendy parenting blog, and it’s not as woo-woo as it might sound.

Let’s dig into what EC is, where it comes from, how it works, and whether it’s a practical solution for Western families today.

Let’s talk about poop. Not in a whisper, not in code. Just straight-up bowel movements. Because if you're reading this, chances are you've got a toddler who's holding it in like their life depends on it — and it's stressing everyone out.

You’re not alone. Many children, especially during potty training, become afraid to poop. It’s confusing, sometimes painful (literally), and emotionally frustrating for both child and parent. But there’s a very real developmental reason behind it.

Ah, diapers — soft, squishy security blankets with leg holes. If your toddler is treating them like their prized possession and flat-out refuses to even look at the potty, you’re not alone. Many parents hit a moment where it feels like their child might walk across the graduation stage in a Pull-Up. But I promise — they won’t.

Ah, potty training. That magical time when you transition from wiping adorable baby bottoms to cheering when someone pees in a plastic bowl shaped like a tiny throne. What could go wrong? Oh, just a few super common habits that lovingly sabotage the whole process.

Let’s break down the biggest potty training progress killers (and lovingly roast them a little, because we’ve all done them).

Once upon a time, babies were potty trained by 18 months. Now, many kids aren’t out of diapers until 3 or even 4. What gives?

The age at which children are potty trained has shifted significantly in the last century, and understanding why can help you decide when to start—and why waiting too long can backfire.

You had the reward chart. You had the new undies. You even had the mini toilet with a flushing sound. But your toddler? Not impressed. If your child is refusing to even sit on the potty, take a deep breath—you’re not failing. This is common, developmentally normal, and fixable.

From dramatic toilet standoffs to ‘Mum, I have to poop!’ in the car park—potty training is not for the faint of heart. 🧻
Here are the 5 most ridiculous (and totally real) potty training hurdles parents face—and how to survive them with your dignity mostly intact.

Personally, I think summer time is a great time to do potty training, but what is an even better time, is when your child is ready. Sometimes those ready signs can be subtle and missed. When toddlers are over ready, potty training can feel like a real battle of wills.

Many children poop at nap-time or bedtime before falling to sleep or in some cases on waking. When potty training, this can cause a great deal of stress for parents.