My son is nearly 2 years 9 months and has been showing signs of readiness for potty training. Went naked from waist down for about 4 days, he asked for 'nappy on' and 'pants on' a few times but no major protests or upset. A few accidents but we've been really relaxed about it. He seemed to understand his bodily cues and could hold it after only a day or so, so we started dressing him and explained everything. He now tells us he needs a wee/potty, then nothing happens. He holds it to the point of bursting but often won't stay sat on the potty long enough to let it happen. It's horrible to see him distressed and we've tried everything to calm him and told him it's not a problem if it comes out in his pants or on the floor. I've even offered him to sit on a nappy on the potty but no joy. He will eventually let it out into the potty but only once he reaches the point that he physically can't hold it in anymore.
Incidentally he also started being dry overnight, which is new. We're not even thinking about nighttime potty training yet, but it's like something switched in his head and he holds it now..? Still put him in a nappy at night.
I'm not trying to rush this but have read contradictory advice - some things advocate consistency and that going back to nappies will confuse him, whilst other advice says to go back to nappies and try again in a few months. He seems physically ready and understands what is going on, but is so reluctant to release on the potty - should I take this as a sign he is not in fact emotionally ready?
He's generally pretty stubborn and wilful but he does also usually listen and understand when I explain why I do/don't want him to do something (ie 'gentle parenting' style usually works, he seems to comprehend things well) We've currently decided to give it to the end of the week (he's in nursery tomorrow so we'll see how that goes) but if no change by then we're considering giving in and going back to nappies. My only worry there is that however long we leave it we'll just end up back in the same situation.
So mumsnet please help! Should we stay the course or go back to nappies?? TIA 😊 🙏