[jmerrym]

Stubborn 3 yr old fights and runs around table when he needs changing of a diaper or clothing and he does the same when trying to get him to sit on the potty even though he will go on his own occasionally. I know he is ready because he will grab himself when he needs to pee and will sit in a certain position when he needs a bowel movement. I have tried pullups and training panties so he will feel less like a baby to no avail. Help, I would like to get him potty trained.

[Wondergirl]

My suggestion is that you relax and stop trying to potty train him. It sounds like he is a very smart little boy and is pulling your chain. Kids will often do the exact opposite of what you want them to do, especially when they know it rattles you. (This will happen time and time again as he grows up, so figure this out now!)

Since he seems to know when he has to go potty, put him back in control, so to speak, and see what happens. Make sure he's always wearing pants that are easy to pull down. If you are taking him out of the house for shopping etc. put something like pull-ups on him to avoid accidents. At home, go with big-boy pants (not training pants or pull-ups), and make sure the potty chair is easily available. Be very matter-of-fact about the potty and his use of it ("The potty is here if you need it. I'm going to wash dishes now."), then go about your business.

My sons were each 3 when they decided to get with the program, and each had no problem training themselves (in just a few days). After all, YOU don't want to be trained; you want HIM to be trained. The more you make something of it, the harder he will resist.