I agree, I think it is so important to ensure the child is ready before they are being taught potty training! otherwise, it could just yeild frustratino for mom, baby and all involved!

 I never forced my son at all and he was probably just under 2 years old. Once they can tell you they're wet, even if it's just by saying “yuck” or “poo” or screwing up their face when they come tapping at you to change them, I'd say they're ready.

I never used the training pants that are almost like a diaper though, just ordinary pants. I think them being uncomfortable when wet is a big reason in their minds to use the potty. Training pants that take away all the wetness would just be too darn comfy I think. I was lucky in that he hated being wet and trained very fast.

They're all different though, so don't fret if yours is slower than someone else's. My friend's baby was only two months younger than mine and she was closer to three than two by the time she finally came off diapers completely but she talked far quicker than mine did. They'll all develop at their own pace in different skill areas.