How can try to potty train my child (at 5yo) who's having accidents and just doesn't want to go on his own?

Assist/ Reward: One drag on toilet training is the mixed messages a kid gets if you follow him around asking if he needs to go. If he doesn't, he is sad he can't produce, if he needs to go & you are not there asking, he may not be able to hold it until you do.(again sad). If you tell him you will help, he picks the time (which is crucial)& you assist.(no sadness).A reward system helps motivate & can work overnight.

Pediatrician: Seeing an experienced pediatrician and having a frank discussion is worth the investment. At age five, this milestone should have been reached by now. There are methods of positively reinforcing your child but by no means do you want to make him or her feel inferior-under any conditions-this problem will correct, just be patient. Not enough space here to get into it, a good pediatrician will he.

Encopresis is the : diagnosis for having bowel movements anywhere other than in the toilet in a child of 5 or older. Withheld stool hardens & liquid stool can leak around it. He needs a physical exam & an X-ray of the abdomen to determine if he needs a bowel "clean-out" followed by at least 6 mos. of Miralax (polyethylene glycol) to keep stools soft. Seek referral to a behavioral therapist for successful treatment of toileting refusal.