By Theresa Edwards, Intern.

In her new book, "Potty Trained by Two", emerging Ballard author Angela Graham challenges our disposable diaper culture to rethink when and how children are potty trained for a more environmentally sound, cost effective, and meaningful experience.

Did you know that half of the world’s children are potty trained by age one? In contrast, the United States holds the record for the latest potty training age, with an average of three years for girls and 39 months for boys, says Graham in her book. Why so late? According to Graham, many of today’s parents are afraid to start potty training too early because they are worried that their child isn’t “ready”.

The book confronts this misconception, explaining that society has made parents ignorant to babies' communications. This in turn can inhibit the child’s awareness over time.

“Training our babies to ignore their elimination processes for a solid two years creates a major disconnect within the mind and body of the child,” explained Graham.

For many parents, the diaper choice seems simple—cloth or disposable?

Right before her first child was born, Graham talked with someone who had decided to not use diapers at all.

“I was just blown away by the idea,” Graham recalled. “It had never occurred to me to question diapers.” As she started to research, she became increasingly curious. What did people do for thousands of years before the disposable diaper, or in other cultures? There had to be a simpler, more practical way of dealing with human waste.

Graham began to observe her newborn daughter, Roxana, noticing signs when the baby needed to go to the bathroom. Implementing her own ideas and intuition, she guided her daughter through the potty training process, which she later named the PTBT (Potty Trained By Two) Method. Roxana, now three, was completely done with diapers at 18 months.

The PTBT Method is no secret magical formula by any stretch. It involves first recognizing that all infants possess the ability to communicate their needs, then learning how to guide and support the child through meeting those needs appropriately.

As a single mother, Graham has had her share of challenges—but she says the PTBT Method was worth the effort.

“The most beautiful reward is seeing my daughter now, the way she carries herself and feels about her body,” Graham said. She explained that her success demonstrates how the PTBT Method can be accomplished in any family dynamic. 

Graham hopes that other parents will be inspired to rethink their ideas about toilet training. In addition to creating a deeper bond between parent and child, the PTBT Method is environmentally conscious and budget-practical, said Graham. Although it doesn’t do away with diapers altogether, the reduction in usage means less money spent on diapers and less non-biodegradable material thrown into landfills.

Graham’s ambitions for the future include a book tour in the Pacific Northwest, expanding her classes and consultation services, and creating a greater support network for families.

To buy the book or access potty training resources, visit her website at www.pottytrainedbytwo.com.