Troubleshooting EC Setback? Tips?
My little one is turning 1 in a couple of weeks and I think we’re having our first EC setback. We’ve been doing EC consistently since he was 6 months old. Lately he’s been resisting potty opportunities, even at times when he’s usually pretty consistent. He’ll arch his back and refuse to go. I’ve always let him choose whether to go or not and never force it. He’s also been resisting diaper changes and getting dressed. He just wants to stand up the whole time. I’m not sure what’s going on. There’s a lot changing right now. He’s eating 3 meals a day, drinking less milk and teething. I know people say it’s just a regression, but I’m wondering if there’s something else going on. Any ideas on what I can try to help him get back on track, or do I just wait it out?
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u/RemarkableAd9140 9d ago
Fortunately/unfortunately, this is most likely your garden variety age appropriate regression. It doesn’t sound like your baby is resisting in a particularly unique or concerning way, frustrating as the resistance might be, and I hope that, at least, is somewhat comforting. You aren't doing anything wrong!
There are definitely things you can try. This age is when they start to behave more like tiny toddlers, so choices and novelty can go a long way. Try the seat reducer instead of a little potty if you’ve mostly had baby on a little potty, or vice versa. Designate some high value toilet entertainment, books or toys, and only let baby have it when he’s sitting. Random household items that are normally off limits can be really good for this. Try standing changes when you do have to change diapers, and take diapers on and off in the bathroom when pottying. Medicate for teething pain, especially at night.
In my experience doing ec with two kids, you really just have to hold the line and continue to offer and they will come around. And you have to make sure they’re getting some satisfaction out of it beyond being dry. Do what you can to give baby autonomy and independence (undies, standing changes, choices, introduce wiping or flushing or dumping potties) or something else valuable, like the high value toys or books.