A Longitudinal Study of Assisted Infant Toilet Training During the First Year of Life

Abstract

Objective: Previous retrospective studies have examined elimination signals, stool toileting refusal, and completion age in Assisted Infant Toilet Training (AITT). The aim of this longitudinal cohort study was to describe the practice of AITT and caregiver satisfaction in a primarily Western setting during the first year of life. Methods: Families who started AITT before 4 months of age were recruited. Standardized interviews of caregivers were conducted at 1-to 2-month intervals. To identify trends over time, data were fitted to a linear mixed-effect model. Data were analyzed according to five 2-month blocks, starting at 3 to 4 months. Results: Of 85 participating families, 87 children started AITT at a mean age of 2.5 months. At all age intervals, 88% to 94% of caregivers could identify elimination signals. Toileting attempts decreased from 10/ day at 3 to 4 months to 7/day at 11 to 12 months (p < 0.001). Many families (45%-53%) practiced AITT on a part-time basis. Daytime dryness was noted in 12% to 14% of infants throughout the first year. Although more than 63% of families used cloth or disposable diapers throughout this study, use of trainers and underwear increased significantly by 2-to 3-fold (p < 0.01 for both). Caregiver satisfaction was high overall. Although negatively associated with potty refusal, it was positively associated with daytime and nighttime dryness, perceived elimination signals, and a better understanding of their infant's needs (p < 0.001 for all). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that AITT is a worthy viable alternative to the use of diapers even in Western settings. Better understanding of AITT provides a new perspective to properly meet infants' basic needs.