ARGH!!! awkward phase - 17mo gets out of nappies, surely too early for training!? WWYD?

[FreudianSlippery]

My DS is always getting out of his nappy and I'm pretty sure he's aware when he wants a wee - if he's naked he'll hide and grin while peeing on the floor

No experience of this as DD was reluctant to be out of nappies and eventually trained in one morning aged 3.2.

Is it actually worth sitting him on the potty?

I would say yes but then I practiced part-time EC. If it is no particular hassle to your day just stick a potty or two around & see if he will use it with a little encouragement. Just don't have any expectations, like he will magically be totally dry in a week's time!

Have you switched to pull-up nappies? It's easier for removing them obviously when you want to try him on the potty. Best thing is to leave his bottom half bare when you are at home if you have an easily cleanable area. If you think it is worth pursuing you could ramp it up by trying to see if he will go upon waking, before you go in the car, when you get to your destination when you get out of the car & when changing nappy. It is actually surprising how long they can hold their wee for when they start to get it.

Yes we also do ec and would say just have a gentle go, taking him to the loo/potty when you suspect he might need a wee.

I take ds (12m) with me whenever I go to the loo during the day and he goes most of the time too. Partly I suspect because he see's me modeling going to the loo as normal behaviour.
As Elvisgirl says don't have great expectations...slow and steady is the name of the game! Good luck!