Question
I have a 20-month-old daughter and recently spent five days trying the Naked & $75 method. During that time, she would occasionally sit on the potty when asked, but usually refused, and when she did sit, nothing happened. She would go on the floor without being bothered by it running down her legs.
Next, I tried using the gate and bell for two days. She would go in, scream for a bit, then do her business and let us know afterward. However, she never used the potty and would shout "No" when we asked her to sit. Now, she won’t let us wipe her after an accident but is happy to clean up the mess on the floor herself.
Answer
Well, my vast experience with toilet training suggests that your daughter is getting a rise out of you. If that's true, then that's like throwing gasoline on a bonfire. At 20 months, after 5 days, this is not only not all that unusual, it's also going to pass, no pun intended. Just use the gate and bell - like, routinely...every single time you put her in the bathroom - and have her clean up any messes she makes. Don't try to make her sit. That's going to result in a power struggle, which you can't win. Just put her in there, tell her "the doctor says you are to put your poo and pee in the potty," turn around, and leave. REMAIN CALM AND POTTY ONWARD!
John Rosemond
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