Rebecca Larsen is on a mission to educate parents and parents-to-be on elimination communication. The process of assisting babies with elimination from birth to toilet independence is a natural process practised by parents all around the world and Rebecca has created a step-by-step guide to help navigate the process. It is a quick and easy-to-read book which outlines the ages and three stages of potty learning, taking a child to toilet independence. You can purchase her book at Elimination Communication Babies, as well as find tips and advice and links to supportive communities.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
We reached toilet independence (daytime underwear) by 18 months with our first son and probably the biggest challenge was finding small enough underwear. I soon realised not many people knew of this option for potty learning, so I began writing a book with the aim that it would be easy to read for tired parents.
We then moved back to New Zealand and established ourselves in Papamoa near the beach. One day, after a storm, I found a disposable nappy washed up at the beach completely covered in seaweed. The nappy was perfectly in-tact – I was shocked. At this time, I decided I should finish the book to encourage other families to consider elimination communication as an option for toileting. The environmental aspect is only one of the benefits. I was sure other families – especially natural parent readers – would also want to save money and offer a healthier and respectful option for toileting baby.
I did not invent this concept – it’s as old as time – but over the past century or less, parents are adopting a new method, which is to delay toilet learning. Elimination communication is an instinctual and natural process. There is a real movement happening in New Zealand to learn about elimination communication, and I am inspired to teach parents that they do have options.
I have established a small group of mothers from around New Zealand and together we are working to educate parents on the benefits of elimination communication, especially when combined with cloth nappies.
- Communication with baby, bonding and connectiveness
- Reduced time to toilet independence
- Saving money
- Reduced chances of nappy rash
- Environmental benefits
- Natural and respectful
- Cleaner
- Easy and fun
The book is available from the Elimination Communication Babies website, in print in New Zealand or as a digital download
We have also set up Facebook support groups:
- Elimination Communication Babies Support
- Maternity Clothing, EC Clothing and Nappies Give & Get in Aotearoa
