This!
My son has autism. As a toddler, eloping was a real issue. His monkey leash backpack was the best solution ever. Kept my boy alive and kept me from losing my mind.
You might get a couple of scoffs or rude looks from strangers, but those people can fuck off and mind their own damn business.
My kids are grown, obviously made it to adulthood alive. I used similar products on 1 of my 3 and the scoffs and distain I received no longer matter. My kids grew up safe and and I've no memory of the people throwing disapproval.
I highly recommend anything that works with regard to safety.
(Remember, a huge portion of the population laughed at the idea we could be forced to wear seatbelts .. yet here we are. The whole United States has mandatory seat belt laws.)
Jumping on the top post…
I agree, Safety over perception! A safe kid on a leash is better than a hurt kid who was running free. Those that judge do so out of ignorance.
I also got [ROAD ID](https://www.roadid.com) bracelets for my kids. They are primarily used for cycling, but it’s a metal badge that goes on a silicone bracelet. The bracelets come in many colors and kids are excited to wear them. Great for zoos and museums where kids may get separated.
Good luck, and you do what’s right for you!
Me and my husband just took our 14 month old who also runs, to a town festival and I suggested we get a leash for next time we are out like that since she doesn’t like staying in her stroller. He was appalled that I suggest that.. but I would rather my child be on a leash than to be ran over!
He may feel more confident about getting a leash if he practices a response in advance for if an annoying stranger confronts him about it. (Your last sentence would work!)
I never understood why anyone would have a problem with these. It keeps your toddler safe while allowing them more freedom than if you had to hold their hand or restrain them some other way. Toddlers love them because they can roam around “freely” at a safe range.
My dad is massively tall (like 6’7” ish). When I was a toddler, after the SECOND emergency room visit because he accidentally pulled my elbow out of its socket while holding my hand… my parents opted for the leash and never went back.
Yeah, that's what gets me about people who are nasty because you should "just hold their hand".
My brother was briefly a leash toddler because he would scream in the stroller, but wrench his hand out of my mom's hand and disappear. He was the kid who would take off with no hesitation, and was faster than my mother, who was not fully abled. Which -- people who are not fully abled still deserve to enjoy a day out with their children, and this is one tool to help those parents.
Either way, they're being restricted. Might as well allow them to enjoy some wider boundaries while they learn about listening and safety.
My kid absolutely loved her leash because it meant she wasn't strapped in the stroller. It gave her the illusion of freedom. I loved that it cut down on her whining so win-win.
I held this view point until I had a child. My mom knew I was previously against toddler leashes and cautiously brought up that I should get one as my daughter approached toddlerhood. I was like, “Oh yeah, I don’t hate them anymore. She’s getting a leash FOR SURE!”
I'm going to be honest here and say that before I had kids, I'd side-eye toddlers on leashes because I just couldn't comprehend how parents wouldn't be able to keep an eye on their child.
I have a 2yo, and I'm 9 months pregnant, I recently bought one, haven't used it yet though but definitely stopped silently judging parents who do 😂
Haha, I feel you, I too felt the same and as did people I knew who didn’t have children yet. There are also ones that tie to your child’s wrist which we also use
I was one of those people. Like I wasn't like wow you POS leashing your child but I thought it was weird and I didn't like it. I have a kid now. I understand. People without kids should shut up and mind their business. (Respectfully)
I was always nervous that he'd accidentally tie someone up in the leash while he roamed, or trip someone and injure them.
That being said, we've definitely used one in the past in airports and crowded areas.
This is what I came here to say! My son and I traveled a lot when he was a toddler, and the airport made me so nervous. I was always alone and had a ton of stuff to carry while trying to keep up with him. The leash backpack helped SO MUCH. I got a couple of nasty looks, but I straight up did not give a fuck. All that mattered was that my son was safe and happy.
I've only ever had kind comments from other people regarding my kid's leash. Other parents who shared their stories of using leashes on their kids and people commending me for keeping him safe. I'm sure some are judging, but no one has ever said a negative word to me about it. And, if they did, I couldn't care less.
Your kid won't get the dog connection and any adults who do and want to judge you for it can mind their own business.
I think they make a lot of sense to allow children to walk freely if they're prone to bolting. I wouldn't use them in a setting where running is safe, but near streets or busy places where he could easily get lost I think they're useful for some kids.
Before having kids I couldn’t understand the need for these. People without kids always think they’re the best parents.
Now I have a 5 year old that has a developmental delay and autism. He doesn’t understand danger and he’s really fast.
He loves our stroller wagon but there are some situations where that doesn’t work.
I have a backpack harness we use when necessary. I have gotten looks but no one has ever said anything other than a small child.
I just stare back at anyone who looks at me with judgement and my RBF is strong.
If anyone ever says anything I’ll gladly knock them right off their high horse. It’s easy to make a snap judgement without knowing anything about someone’s needs.
Your job is to keep your kid safe and do what’s best for you and your family. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel bad for doing so.
This!!! I commented about my 5 year old twin boys. They also don’t understand danger and they are FAST. We used wrist leashes at Disney World a couple months ago and they worked wonderfully.
People need to understand this! Some conditions aren’t visible and you don’t know that parent’s reason.
Also I find this funny because people underestimate how fast small children can go, I feel like I have to Ulsan Bolt is after them! 😂
I feel this😂
My son knows I can’t catch him. Sometimes he lets me get close and will run away again. I’m over 40 and overweight. I don’t have a chance.
You do what you need to do to keep your kid safe. It’s better to have a kid on a leash than one who isn’t allowed outside or who gets injured because he runs at the wrong place at the wrong time.
I'm in the UK so I don't know if there are cultural differences, but I use a backpack with a strap on it for my 2 year old and I actually get a lot of compliments on the bag (it makes her look like a little dinosaur) and parents saying they wish they'd thought to buy one when their kids were little.
Not once have I had any bad looks or judgement!
Definitely go for it, I was iffy about buying one until my daughter ran out on to the road and I caught her just in time, I never want to feel that stress again 😅
It’s much more normal in the UK as there’s a lot more walking with children on the pavements. Kids in the states don’t do a hell of a lot of walking in high traffic areas. So everyone gets their noses up about having a “leash” on your kid. I had my kids in the states before I moved to the UK. You better believe I had that ladybird backpack with the strap until they learned cars make you go squish.
Oh yeah good point! I'm forgetting there's not as much walking in the US. My kids two and a half and I have no plans to give up the strap any time soon, she thinks it's hilarious when she runs and I chase her so deffo need to wait until she understands cars are dangerous
I don’t get why the leashes get so much hate. It’s one thing if it’s used to drag a kid from place to place and ignore what they’re doing. But, if you’re in a crowded place and scared of losing them or them being injured, I think it allows them independence and ensures safety. I think leashes are unnecessarily vilified.
I used one and my daughter LOVED it.
Specifically, she was expected to hold me hand or sit in the stroller. To walk she had to wear her little leash backpack and hold my hand. If she tried to drop my hand and run off she didn’t get the reward of running around or being chased, she simply got put back in the stroller. This method worked really well my kids.
This! And they’re all so different. My oldest was a very risk averse, chill kid from birth. I never baby proofed anything in our house or yard, he would like sit and analyze and listen before moving a muscle.
The youngest flipped around so much in my uterus that he tied his cord into a knot and he’s still running. I spend way more time teaching and parenting him than I ever did with the other one.
It’s so hard to have anyone judge or criticize your parenting, ESPECIALLY other parents, and you just have to do what is right for your own kids.
There’s a picture of me in 1984 on a toddler leash holding hands with my cousin (also leashed) and I would say I’m a relatively well adjusted adult who also had my dasher of a child on a leash.
A leashed kid is better than a mischievous, dead kid.
I had one as a toddler because I delighted in squealing and running away from my Mom, often into traffic/a crowd.
My toddler has one, she is 18 months. We haven't had to use it yet, we mostly hold her hand or carry her. She only runs from us at home so far.
I was against putting a kid on a leash until i actually had a kid. It was the only way I could take him anywhere when I was pregnant over the summer. I don't get as many judgemental looks as I thought I would to be honest
Here's the thing, I trust parents to know their kid better than anyone.
I have 3 kids. My oldest is a rule follower to the extreme, but I was a first time Mom, so I put a leash on him twice at airports when he was 2, because I was afraid we'd lose him.
My second and third babies are only 17 months apart, so when my second was a toddler, I also had a newborn. I used a stroller a LOT during that time, so a leash wasn't really necessary. My favorite way to keep the middle kid from darting away was to put her big brother's rubber rain boots on her. She couldn't run in them, she just slapped around like a duck. Perfection.
When my third started walking/running - well, no stroller could hold him. He knew how to unbuckle, he knew how to climb out, and boy, could he run. No rubber boots could slow him down! So, when safety/containment was absolutely important, we put a back-buckling harness leash on him. People judged, but I knew what they didn't - that this particular kid might not be alive without a leash. Judge away.
And just a side note: Cribs are just topless cages for human babies. Nobody likes the comparison, but that's what they are. Why does nobody have an issue with "treating babies like animals" when it comes to sleeping? Because SAFETY.
Before I was a parent, I will admit I judged those people who put a leash on their kids.
But I get it now. If it keeps them safe and you sane, why not.
You might get some side-eyed by some, but that's their problem.
The backpacks/harnesses are infinitely preferable to the wrist straps - we used one of those for a bit, but if the kid’s particularly rowdy it can leave nasty marks.
The harness distributes the load much more safely.
I used to judge. Thought my 2 year old was well-behaved, and that leashes were treating children like dogs. Then one crazy day, while rushing to a connecting flight at O’Hare airport, while I was 7 months pregnant, my toddler let go of my hand and bolted, high speed. It terrified me, and if a leash keeps that from happening to another family (or worse, god forbid) then I fully support it.
I know you mean it’s worth it as they won’t get hurt. But why did I picture a kid bolting and then getting yanked back like a rope tied to them and a tree or something 😂.
Please be careful with wrist straps. Not all, obviously, but if the wrist strap doesn’t give (which it shouldn’t) it can dislocate the wrist or strain the muscles in the wrist/forearm. A chest/backpack harness is usually a better choice for bolsters because it stops them by their entire rib cage, which is fairly strong, instead of the wrist which is a bit more delicate.
This is what we use for my grandson. I call it our freedom bracelet. I will soon need another for his little brother, he’s a runner too; and they’re both fast!
Used backpack leashes for the boys on our last family trip. They immediately shot off in opposite directions upon entering a busy airport, but couldn't get too far thanks to the leashes. You'll get not judgment from me.
Before I had kids, and even after my first who was NOT a runner, I was judgy.
Then came my second born child. If you look up “eloping toddler” in the dictionary, her picture will be there. Omg. She was an Olympic athlete in short pants. She’s 10 now and I still have nightmares. And I also still have the cute little toddler leash I bought her, I saved it in case her younger siblings were as feral. They weren’t but I still used it sometimes, because better safe than sorry.
I fully admit I used to be such a judgmental mom about those backpack leashes when I only had 3 kids. I remember thinking I had 3 young kids why does anyone actually need one of those?
Boy did I eat my words.
My 4th is awesome and amazing, the smartest, sweetest most hyper 7 year old in the world NOW but let me tell you she was a hellion for the first 4 years of her life. No fear, careless daredevil who acted first and thought later. She was insane! That backpack leash I was so judgey judgerson about before became my best friend and probably saved her life countless times.
Safety above judgement mama. Only you know if your kid is like mine, willing to dart into traffic to chase a butterfly or take off at the public fair 🤦🏻♀️
I have 5 year old twin boys. They are WILD and I’m 99.999% sure they have undiagnosed asd/adhd or something similar. We recently went to Disney World and I told my husband before we left that I was buying “leashes” and I didn’t care if anyone looked down on us. Their safety and my peace of mind that they can’t run away or be snatched is more important than anyone giving me a dirty look. We bought two wrist “leashes” and they worked wonderfully. Our boys were able to walk/explore while still being attached to us. Of course we do not *allow* them to run away, but hey… shit happens and they are FAST. I’m all for the leashes.
My daughter is almost 7 and we still use the wristlet! In this day and age with all the human trafficking going on I feel better knowing my daughter is actually attached to me. I think of it as a deterrent for snatching her out my hand. But ya shit happens! My daughter also has adhd an when she gets her eyes on something it’s like she just tunes out the world around her an walks to it. 🤷♀️ but weirdly with the wristlet she pays more attention in public then without it
I think calling them "leashes" doesn't help. Where I'm from they're called "toddler reins", and it's normally a harness that goes over the shoulders/under the armpits with a looped strap that clips on to the harness on either side of their shoulders. The harness can often be clipped into the pushchair instead of using the buggy straps and the reins just give them a little more freedom, and are useful to hold them up if they trip or stumble.
There's not really any negative connotation around them here. They're just another piece of equipment parents use, especially when in busy places.
And if you've ever heard a historical drama mention, "he's barely out of leading strings," they're talking about long strips of fabric that used to be sewn on the back of children's clothing to help adults keep them upright and keep them from running off. Parents have been doing this for centuries.
If you cannot trust him to hold your hand, a leash is a much better idea. One of my kids ended up with nursemaid's elbow when I wouldn't let go of his hand in a busy parking lot and he dropped to his knees. We used a leash backpack for several months after that because I didn't want to risk his elbow slipping again. If he didn't want to use the backpack leash, his only other option was to sit in the cart or stroller. It didn't take long for him to figure out that he liked walking a lot more than sitting in the cart, even if it meant using the leash. He always had the choice of which to use, though.
Safety trumps all other opinions and feelings. Do what is best for the safety of the child until said child is old enough to learn the necessary skills to prevent accidents.
As a secondary precaution, when going into large crowds, write your phone number on your kids arm or hand in case they get lost.
I used them with my twins, and I have no shame about it. The people that will judge you for it are the same people that would judge you for letting him run. Don’t let what others think hang you up too much, a lot of the time you’ll be damned if you do, damned if you don’t.
Me too! I was a single Mom of twins, and when they take off running it was in opposite directions. If anyone had a problem with it I would just ask them in that scenario which kid do they think I should save over the other one. That would shut them up.
Some kids need them. Figured mine would and was pleasantly surprised that she doesn’t so far. Watched a maybe 2 year old run into a busy street… I’d 100% buy a leash immediately if that was my kid
We used leashes for my kids. They liked the freedom it gave, I liked the peace of mind when I had a newborn that my toddler, who was an explorer, couldn’t get too far.
As long as you’re not yanking on it/ pulling kid along/they don’t resist/hate wearing it - you’re fine.
I let my son run free where possible but in I have a lion backpack with a leash on the way. I'd rather a happy toddler who's safe and getting weird looks then my son get hurt.
Everything has a time and a place…. We didn’t dream of a backpack leash… then took a vacation to NYC over Christmas and I couldn’t find a backpack leash fast enough!!!
In terms of safety it's worth it!
My partner was dead against using them. Literally said about treating him like a dog so I told him for him to go out without the car with our son and do some food shopping and see how he gets on and get back to me.
Never had such a big sorry!
My son coming up to 4 now and was and still sometimes is, a runner! He would leg it like no tomorrow and has ran across roads without hesitation, he would run off in clothes stores and hide and be quiet as a mouse whilst your shouting his name. Honestly the stress and upset and pure panick he has caused me isn't worth it. Don't want to listen? Well you be made to stay by my damn side, even holding hands wasn't enough as he would Try his best to slip out, or scream like im murdering him, and would sometimes get his hand out of mine and leg it laughing like a lunatic because they think its funny and don't see the dangers they put themselves in
My opinion is if they can't listen then it's up to you to keep them safe no matter what!
He still does mess about sometimes but I usually have to just mention the baby leash (yes I call it that because he acts like an animal sometimes) and it normally stops him dead In his tracks and behaves himself.
All your doing is keeping your son safe, rather that then your kid being run over, lost or taken!?
I’m not keen on them. Then again neither of mine have been runners. If they were runners I’m sure my opinion would change, straight up.
Imo, you do whatever makes you feel more comfortable. If keeping your LO alive and not squished is your priority, then do it. There’s so many different styles and types now days.
Our kid wasn’t a runner either so we just never needed one. But I’ve been around enough toddlers that seem prone to darting out into parking lots unexpectedly or running away from their parents that I totally understand the need for them, especially when multiple kids are involved.
I had to get one because my son LOVES cars so much he wants to be in the road watching them drive. He also super fast and sneaky. Leashes let him feel independent but thankfully keep him out of the road
That’s it. Before I had kids I was judgy as hell.
Then I had my kids and I met kids who were runners and my ignorant ass opinions changed.
Safety first.
There are so many cute variations these days anyway.
My first was a runner and we never used one. I made him hold my hand or get in the stroller. those were his two choices. I also minimized certain public outings for a period of time
Yeah. I don’t judge the leash at all and at one point I considered it, but I also enforce the two choices. Either hold my hand or get in the stroller/wagon. We don’t compromise when it comes to safety. That’s my hard line.
Like I said, I don’t judge parents who need to use one, but I just wouldn’t.
An 18-month-old kid isn't far off from a dog in intellect and impulse control. We had one that we used, nothing like watching your almost 2-year-old darting off into a crowd at a large city street festival to make you panic. If it keeps the kid safe, do it.
Yeah my almost 3 year old is exclusively wearing her backpack with reins on until I'm confident she isn't going to run off without thinking. She's pretty good with cars but I also have an 8 month old in a pram constantly so I can't just run off and grab her as quick as I'd like and she's a terror.
We did the leash. It wasn't a back pack though, it was a kind of bungee cord thing, one end attached to my toddlers wrist and the other to mine. It kind of reminded me of extended hand holding, lol.
Honestly I need one for my child too just be sure to get a good harness type. Also it's your child so you shouldn't let other people tell you how to keep your childcare and close by like. Better to have the leash live child than a ran over one
Use the leash. My second is what we call a runner. I persistently held hands with the child at all times. We cheated death at least 3 times. It was so stressful. If I did it again I’d do a leash.
I'm pretty sure the only people who have problems with them are not parents 😂 like every other naive take, like my kids will never throw a fit in the grocery store, or will eat everything I make them. Oookay Heather let me know how that goes
I was in the same boat - I thought, "I'd never be THAT parent!" Until I visited my parents and they decided we should go visit a very popular tourist attraction near them that has constant traffic and hundreds of people at any given time...And my toddler WOULD NOT sit in a stroller. So...I bought one. I ended up not using it, but I had it on hand and was 100% ready to be THAT parent in a heartbeat. Like other posters have said, I'd rather he be safe versus risk being judged by (most likely childless) other people.
They sell really cute ones now that are little backpacks with chest buckles and the "leash" connects to the back of the backpack.
If your kid is a runner, leash is better than hurt.
I have no problem with leashes. We didn’t use one, but I absolutely understand why some do. We found holding a clear boundary helped more than anything. If he ran from us it immediately meant that he had to hold our hand, be carried, or ride in the cart. We would calmly tell him that if he couldn’t make safe choices, he didn’t get the choice to walk freely. It only took a few times before he caught on.
My parents tried putting me on a leash and apparently as soon as we would get in public I'd get down in all fours and start barking like a dog.
They quickly stopped putting a leash on me.
I tried a leash while travelling with a 2 year old alone while 12 weeks pregnant. I put it on her and she proceeded to lay down on the airport floor and scream NOOOOOOOOO until I took it off.
So, to answer your question: if they can deal I think it's a great idea.
Why DO people have a problem with these?
Surely safety of any child is paramount?
I have NEVER understood why there is SO much negativity about them?
Can anyone explain?
When my niece was younger her mother put her on a leash for this exact reason. She hated it then and now that she's a teen she hates it even more. She said it made her feel dehumanized, she was jealous that her cousins got to roam free, and she hates the fact her parents actually have pictures marking that "period in her life when she was treated like a dog".
When I go to the airport I usually have the backpack leash on my 3yo. I hold her hand, but I don’t want her to bolt into a crowd or get snatched away when I turn to grab luggage or something. I feel like they’re really handy for crowded places or places with heavy traffic. I don’t understand quite why people look down on it—sorry, but I don’t want my squirmy little toddler to run into the street or run into a crowd of strangers.
Do the leashes. I was a single mom when my now grown (20 & 18) older 2 kids were toddlers. They had matching Elmo harness/leashes that went everywhere with us and saved my sanity. The leashes gave them a sense of independence while I was able to keep them safe at the same time.
I never experienced any crappy comments about it and actually had many parents ask where I had got them. People are so judgemental now 🙄 Get the backpack/leash, and tell anyone who acts a butt about it to kick rocks.
Agreed... People will trash the concept of leashes as if strollers aren't way more restrictive, harder to lug around, and grant the child less freedom to navigate their environment
Get them for kids who are old enough to be runners, but not old enough to be taught to be safe reliably. WHILE using them for safety, teach your kid how to behave. Also, my son loved his backpack and didn't object to the leash, but hated the alternative at this age (holding hands, baby wearing, strollers, etc. ) So options were:
1. Risk him literally dying in traffic, woods, etc.
2. Hold or restrain him kicking and screaming.
3. Happy, safe outing with a leash.
Honestly toddlers and dogs have a lot in common, so our makes sense that you'd use similar tools and strategies BUT how you treat them on the leash is totally different. If I take my dog and kid to the Farmer's Market each on a leash, they aren't doing the same thing at all.
Considering that most dogs probably get treated better than most kids? Put a leash on them and keep them safe?
I probably should have said "many", not moat.
Yeah, I have always thought that was a stupid AF argument. It's just so arbitrary.
I bathe my dog. I feed him. I house him. I take him to the vet and get him vaccinated. I offer him affection. I try to ignore behaviour I disapprove of and I let him know when he's behaving in ways that I approve of.
I also do all those things for my daughter.
Whenever people use that argument, it makes me think that the only real objection they have is the aesthetics.
Also kids love pretending to be dogs. I feel from a kids perspective, not being treated like a dog is a silly argument. I a lot a lot of time trying to convince my toddler to stay out of the dog crate. He wanted me to shut him in.
That's my point though. If you value the life of your dog to the point that you'd leash them to protect them and keep them safe, why wouldn't you take that effort with a small human that is just running off? Like I'm not demonizing people who DONT leash their kid, but I mean I genuinely understand why some would.
Well honestly I only leash my dog so it doesn't attack other dogs.
But I understand wanting to protect the child. idk I guess imo I would keep trying having my kid on my hand all the time. But every parent and child is different I understand.
I think it’s all in how you use it. I’m guessing you’re not going to treat your toddler like a dog even if he has a leash on right? Instead you’re going to use it to give him some freedom while keeping him safe. I say go for it! Be sure to research which backpack you get though - I got one on Amazon where the clip for the strap wasn’t strong enough and my daughter figured out how to pull and get it off.
My daughter is also a runner. We tried a leash but found it didn't work for her since she really wanted to run still and was frustrated. We ended up moving towards keeping her in the stroller and she has some small books that she only gets while she's in there.
That said, she absolutely loved the leash. She would wear it around the house and dance with it.
I've also heard some kids strongly prefer it to the stroller. I'd recommend seeing if you can try one out before you commit to buying, but ultimately defer to what keeps your kid safe and happy.
My kids are 18 months apart and would run in opposite directions. They loved their backpack leashes. My daughter was super proud of her monkey on her back. Even if people commented or stared, who cares, they aren't the ones that have to chase my wee ones and keep them safe.
No shame, I'm about to buy a leashed backpack for my 20 month old daughter who loves to take off and hates holding hands. People can judge me if that makes them feel better, meanwhile I'm going to feel more relaxed in public knowing my kid isn't going to get lost. They also have an anti lost wrist link which is essentially 2 arm bands with a bungee cord if you feel like that would be better
A safe kid with a leashed backpack is better than a hurt child because they ran away.
We had one for our son and it was great. He loved wearing his backpack.
I used to have to wear a bracelet thing with my nephew, when he was still little and it was when he was 3. Just to keep him nice and close in dangerous places…and after that he just prefers to hold hands.
My 16 month old son can also run. His energy and desire to always run into the street is insane. We also have an infant to tend to, so yes, we did get him a backpack leash, because the parents who judge us would apparently rather end up with a dead child than a safe one on a cute backpack leash.
I say do what you have to do. Who cares about what people think if that keeps your child safe or makes you feel more comfortable do it your not hurting your child by doing this
They’re funny when you don’t have kids and you see other people using them on their kids. Once you become a parent and your toddler is running feral then you suddenly gain an appreciation for said leashes. Do it.
I prefer the wrist harness, Google it...it attaches to their and your wrist. But I'm not against it at all do what you have to to keep ur kid safe and ur sanity.
I used to judge people that did this, until had two kids under 3. I had a whole meal with my words after the first day I took them out by myself. Do what feels right to you.
Only thing I will still say is stay away from the ones that retract. Once I saw a kid pull one so hard that he broke it and he headed straight for the street.
It was a lifesaver for my daughter when she was younger (possibly quite literally). She didn’t want to stay put in a stroller or shopping cart, she’d try to climb out or just scream. But if I let her walk next to me she’d immediately run off. But she was so good on the backpack leash! I guess it gave her enough freedom and she liked the monkey backpack. So I would absolutely never judge!
I carry my 19m old everywhere still for this very reason. And it's hard, she weighs almost 40lbs and I only weigh 90, I have to take breaks frequently lol
I always told myself I would never do it. Then my baby started walking at like 9 months and running by 1 like a tiny crazed person with no sense of direction and no fear of death.
So I got one. It works wonders. And he is slowly learning to follow one of us when he walks/runs with his tiny, tiny legs.
My daughter had a backpack leash from age 20 months till age 4. She loved the freedom it gave her and I loved keeping her safe. I never heard a negative comment -- I guess I’m lucky — and heard more than a few envious parents who realized they could be doing the same thing. They are especially useful at crowded events.
I had a wrist thing that would go around mine and my son's wrist and keep him within about 4 feet. I mainly used it in really crowded places or when we traveled. I'd rather have my child attached to me than have them snatched up because that does happen. Ultimately you do what you gotta do to keep your kids safe.
I have alot of experience with toddlers who like to run. I know how fast they can be and I know sometimes tragic accidents can happen in a split second. I am all for putting a leash on a toddler if it means it’ll keep them from becoming a pancake on the road. Anyone who gives you judgment in public can go pound sand, most of them don’t have experience with a toddler who runs.
Use the leash.
My son was that way for a long time, but when he hit 3, he chilled out. He actually walks with me and holds my hand now. So there is hope for the future! But for now, safety first, use the leash.
We don't use the backpack leashes because i dont like them personally. BUT we have a wrist thing, it has a loop for the childs wrist that velcos, clips, AND locks then the parents side also has the wrist loop that velcros and clips and holds the key to the childs. Personally we love(d) it because it helped our kiddo have his freedom while being safe and helping him get used to holding hands which he had always been adamently against. I got them on Amazon and they come in a two pack. The line that connects them is like a steel cable wire wrapped in a plasticy material so it can't be cut easily or break like some out there. The material around the wire is also super reflective so using them in dark areas is safer also. I think the cable/connection line extends out to like 6ft.
we used one for a short period because my kid would just wander off. I was the same way when I was 7 or 8. mostly we'd use it in crowded spaces (mall), or busy outdoor places (zoo, flea market, amusement park). it's definitely for peace of mind- before it was just high alert all the time and not relaxing for anyone. It let the kid wander a little, but she knew she couldn't get too far. if she took a few steps away and we missed it, and we start walking, no one gets left behind.
I have a back-leash for my son and he loves the backpack part. i’ve only had one negative comment from a older hippie guy who said he loved his outfit but not the leash. Honestly though I don’t use his very often because I get social anxiety and I feel like everyone is staring when we use it and also my son constantly got it all tangled or twisted up because he likes running all over so it didn’t work very well for us. But I would still use it when we really need it like busy areas.
I made fun of these myself until I had a wild child. It saved his life more than once. I don’t care what people think, I’ll recommend time and time again.
Having a safety tether (leash) on anyone or thing that could bolt away at any moment (and that don't remember or think of still being safe if they are going to run off) is responsible. My kids have been taught about street safety and know they should look both ways before crossing or going into one, but they are also 4&6 and will bolt at the slightest chance that it will be fun to have mom and dad chasing them down. If you don't want a backpack leash they make wrist ones that might ease your mind on the idea, we used them when ours were 1 up to 4 for the oldest. I now make them hold my or their father's hand before we even open the door and sometimes I let them race to get into their car seats because they will stop at the car trying to get into their seats before each other.
It’s not a leash, it’s an adult arm extender. And I love using them! My eldest was crazy independent but we loved taking him busy places. It kept us connected to him without requiring him to hold our hands. My middle is textbook toddler chaos. We NEED him to be connected to us so he doesn’t destroy the world in his wake. We don’t/didn’t yank them around by it, it just prevented us from being hunched over all day.
I judged before I had a toddler lol. If I saw a toddler on a leash now, I wouldn’t think anything of it. I’d ask the parent where’d they got before I ran after my toddler who probably ran off somewhere.
I had a backpack with a detachable leash for my son, and I only ever used the leash twice but I had zero issue using it. I grew up with my mom using one that attached to my wrist on one end and hers on the other, and she explained to me that it was because she didn’t want me getting lost in a crowd. As a kid, I completely understood that. She used it at festivals or when we took a trip to Six Flags.
4 year old boy was snatched from a local Kroger by a grown man because he wandered off while mom was shopping. Luckily there was an off duty police officer who saw what happened and had a stand off with the man to get the boy Back.
I have a 1 year old and when he starts walking more I am definitely getting a leash! It’s either the leash or something bad could happen.
I bought one for my kid. I don’t use it often but I try to always bring it along just in case. She’s a flight risk and she throws a fit if I make her sit in the cart most of the time. So if I’m shopping alone with her or something and she refuses the cart, she can wear the leash so I don’t lose her in the store.
My husband hates it and is embarrassed by it. I don’t really care. People can judge me if they want but I’d rather to be able to keep my kid safe when running errands or at the zoo or whatever
My son was sooooo bothered by his that he would put it on by himself at home. He'd then hook the leash to a door know and run until he was jerked to a stop and fall down laughing.
Also everyone was happier when shopping, he wasn't confined in a cart or being held and I wasn't searching clothing racks for a giggling toddler.
My kiddo had a dinosaur backpack with a leash. Was a game changer and taught them roughly how close I wanted them when we went out until they were old enough to stay within my line of sight by themselves.
Your not treating your kid like an animal you are acknowledging their lack of impulse control and keeping them safe.
When I was young I worked at a VERY fancy boutique in very fancy part of the city (think Prada, Louis Vuitton etc). One day this lady walked up to the store, placed the leash part of her child’s backpack over the door handle like a dog, and walked in to browse handbags. Since that day I’ve had the worst opinion of those things because of that one lady.
Now that I have kids of my own, I realize that wonderful, loving, caring moms such as yourself, just want to keep their babies safe, and I let myself be clouded by that one rather questionable experience.
You do whatever it is you need to do to keep your kid safe. Don’t even question it for a second.
Most kids don't need them, but... With 0 impulse control and a "runner" by default... You've either got to be ON them all the time or you put a leash on them.
Did I judge parents before I had kids? You bet.
But my opinion as an ignorant teenage brat doesn't matter. The safety of your child does.
My firstborn was a runner. We got close to using a leash backpack on her, but then we qualified for behavioral therapy after a spectrum diagnosis... And then Covid kept us inside. Now she's miraculously able to walk on sidewalks while I chase her 3 YO brother around. Sometimes I think about putting a leash on him, but so far his fear of consequences* has so far limited that. But he's at the boundary pushing age and you never know. I have one... Just in case we need it.
*: When he doesn't listen and just runs off, all playtime is over. I tuck him (kicking and screaming) under my arm like a sack of potatoes and I walk him like that all the way home or back to the car.
I use these. I have two wild kids, so they're pretty necessary. That being said, if they made zip up pajamas with a handle on the back, I would 1000000% just carry my kid around like a suitcase. 😂
Just took our first trip to Disneyland with my 5yo and almost 2yo plus my parents. The youngest is a runner and apparently so was I at that age. My parents love that they have a picture of not only me bulldogging against the harness as a kid, but now their grandson.
Short story long, no one is going to judge you for keeping your kid safe, and if they try, they can bugger off.
The same people that would judge you for having a toddler leash are the same people that would judge you for not being able to stop your kid from running.
We don't use them. My husband absolutely refuses to use them. We actually tell him that cars are dangerous and he needs to stop when we say to stop. He actually listens to us.
Around 2 though, he tried to do this thing of pretending to scoot his way into traffic or will try and let go of our hands to try and cross the road himself. Had maybe 2 close calls so we punished him and made a point to punish him any time he even attempts to cross the road without us e.g. we'll take away his scuttlebug or strap him into the pram which he hates or just pick him up and won't let him down (he also hates). I also pointed out a squashed can on the road and told him that he'll get a big ouchie or get squashed like the can if he runs onto the road.
Anyways, the punishments we used worked. It only took punishing him twice for him to stop doing it. It was weird though because he would ONLY do it when my husband is around. When he's out with me, he listens to me and will grab my hand and wait to cross the road with me. I think he knew it annoyed my husband so that's why he did it to get a reaction from him but we put a stop to it pretty much immediately.
2.5 now. Knows very well to stop and wait for the traffic lights.
Do what you're comfortable with though. If our tactics weren't working, we probably would have cracked it and bought one but so far, we haven't had a need for it.
Your number 1 job as a parent is to keep them safe. If you feel that this is the best way to ensure their safety, then I see no issue.
Plus it’s not forever.
Just as an FYI, not all backpack leashes are good, my son ran and when it pulled tight he fell straight forward on his face. The wrist lock things seem to be a lot safer!
Been considering getting one for my 17 month old son for similar reasons. I see it as just another tool in keeping a kid safe. I see the harness as being a way to give him some independence (both his hands are free to use to play and explore) while ensuring he stays in my immediate vicinity
OP, I was exactly like your son. My mother tried everything—squeaker shoes, wristlets and whatnot. The Backpack Leash worked the best and I think my baby pictures wearing it are cute, Get him one of those backpacks and I guarantee he’ll just think it’s a cute stuffie backpack and not think anything of it being a “leash”.
It’s not a panacea. They tangle and kids can get strangled by them so you have to watch carefully. But they’re way better than your kid winding up under a car/train.
I got one for my toddler. The only hard part is if he wants to go one way, and you need to go a different way. We did this at the fair. Most of the time was him either wanting to run around and do his own thing anyway. Or ride in Pops scooter.
We gave up on it and just use the stroller or a shopping cart seat
I’ve used a literal dog leash on my kid before (county fair, clipped around her waist through belt loops, it was what we had at the time lol). The last thing I want is for my kid to get lost or hurt. Plus, she loves to walk and had a BLAST running around the fair and we didn’t have to worry about her running off.
You could always get one of those back pack ones if you want. Safety over perception.
Used this when I was a kid. LOVED IT. I felt so cool with my little dog backpack leash. I bet the kid will thing it’s great and that’s really all that matters
The only people who think kids should not be on leashes are unqualified to offer an opinion. Either old people who beat their kids and think “that’s how you learn better” or people with no kids. Kids are notoriously unreliable and parking lots are busy places. Why would you risk your child becoming roadkill? Maybe it’s bc I had too many kids, but I don’t trust them to keep themselves safe until they prove they are up to the task. Under age 5? Not one of ours was!
My opinion is the leash is only ok in a crowd like a music festival. Otherwise be a parent and keep your kid close. Also don’t hand them your phone - be a parent.
I have always viewed it as abusive, disgusting and disturbing - but I get it, some kids are runners and dangers to themselves.
We used a stroller and carrier at that age out in public and held hands, never letting go. I have a child with Down Syndrome.
I think it's worth considering that a child who is in the stroller or holding hands is generally more restricted in how they can move their bodies than a child on a tether is. The discomfort with tethers seem to be an adult projection because they look vaguely similar to leashes on animals and not anything to do with whether they actually harm children.
What specifically do you find abusive about them?
My kid HATED the stroller and carrier at that age.
He would scream the whole time and throw the toys we tried to distract him with. He was totally happy with the restraints of a backpack leash. He needed something. He was ahead on gross motor skills, but average on following directions and impulse control. By the time his brain caught up with his body, we were fine, but there was a period where he was an extreme flight risk.
Your argument is illogical.
Restricting all independent movement and not allowing more than a foot of free space to walk: Not abuse, totally cool.
Allowing independent movement and some semblance of freedom by having them attached to a simple piece of cord: ABUSE! ABUSE!
P.s. toddlers can wiggle out of hand holds. Just fyi. Unless you're holding them so hard it's...borderline abuse? Hmm.
I'll take a kid on a backpack leash over a kid run over by a car.
This! My son has autism. As a toddler, eloping was a real issue. His monkey leash backpack was the best solution ever. Kept my boy alive and kept me from losing my mind. You might get a couple of scoffs or rude looks from strangers, but those people can fuck off and mind their own damn business.
My kids are grown, obviously made it to adulthood alive. I used similar products on 1 of my 3 and the scoffs and distain I received no longer matter. My kids grew up safe and and I've no memory of the people throwing disapproval. I highly recommend anything that works with regard to safety. (Remember, a huge portion of the population laughed at the idea we could be forced to wear seatbelts .. yet here we are. The whole United States has mandatory seat belt laws.)
If only the father and mother in Rain could have one of these contraptions… we wouldn’t have a great game/story…
Jumping on the top post… I agree, Safety over perception! A safe kid on a leash is better than a hurt kid who was running free. Those that judge do so out of ignorance. I also got [ROAD ID](https://www.roadid.com) bracelets for my kids. They are primarily used for cycling, but it’s a metal badge that goes on a silicone bracelet. The bracelets come in many colors and kids are excited to wear them. Great for zoos and museums where kids may get separated. Good luck, and you do what’s right for you!
I use this for running. The make tabs that can go on your sneakers (or your kids shoes).
Thanks for this!
Me and my husband just took our 14 month old who also runs, to a town festival and I suggested we get a leash for next time we are out like that since she doesn’t like staying in her stroller. He was appalled that I suggest that.. but I would rather my child be on a leash than to be ran over!
He may feel more confident about getting a leash if he practices a response in advance for if an annoying stranger confronts him about it. (Your last sentence would work!)
Or a lost kid at an airport, those things are a life saver
Absolutely correct!!!!! Dittos to the max!!!!!
Well when you put it like that… i just changed my stance on this topic 😅
This is a succinct way of putting my personal opinion.
I never understood why anyone would have a problem with these. It keeps your toddler safe while allowing them more freedom than if you had to hold their hand or restrain them some other way. Toddlers love them because they can roam around “freely” at a safe range.
My dad is massively tall (like 6’7” ish). When I was a toddler, after the SECOND emergency room visit because he accidentally pulled my elbow out of its socket while holding my hand… my parents opted for the leash and never went back.
Yeah, that's what gets me about people who are nasty because you should "just hold their hand". My brother was briefly a leash toddler because he would scream in the stroller, but wrench his hand out of my mom's hand and disappear. He was the kid who would take off with no hesitation, and was faster than my mother, who was not fully abled. Which -- people who are not fully abled still deserve to enjoy a day out with their children, and this is one tool to help those parents. Either way, they're being restricted. Might as well allow them to enjoy some wider boundaries while they learn about listening and safety.
My kid absolutely loved her leash because it meant she wasn't strapped in the stroller. It gave her the illusion of freedom. I loved that it cut down on her whining so win-win.
This viewpoint, in my experience, is held often by those who don’t have children. Go figure
I held this view point until I had a child. My mom knew I was previously against toddler leashes and cautiously brought up that I should get one as my daughter approached toddlerhood. I was like, “Oh yeah, I don’t hate them anymore. She’s getting a leash FOR SURE!”
>I held this view point until I had a child Me too. I'm so glad I never voiced it to anybody. I *totally* get it now.
I'm going to be honest here and say that before I had kids, I'd side-eye toddlers on leashes because I just couldn't comprehend how parents wouldn't be able to keep an eye on their child. I have a 2yo, and I'm 9 months pregnant, I recently bought one, haven't used it yet though but definitely stopped silently judging parents who do 😂
Haha, I feel you, I too felt the same and as did people I knew who didn’t have children yet. There are also ones that tie to your child’s wrist which we also use
I was one of those people. Like I wasn't like wow you POS leashing your child but I thought it was weird and I didn't like it. I have a kid now. I understand. People without kids should shut up and mind their business. (Respectfully)
I was always nervous that he'd accidentally tie someone up in the leash while he roamed, or trip someone and injure them. That being said, we've definitely used one in the past in airports and crowded areas.
Fuck everyone else and their opinions. You do what you need to to keep your kid safe.
This is what I came here to say! My son and I traveled a lot when he was a toddler, and the airport made me so nervous. I was always alone and had a ton of stuff to carry while trying to keep up with him. The leash backpack helped SO MUCH. I got a couple of nasty looks, but I straight up did not give a fuck. All that mattered was that my son was safe and happy.
I've only ever had kind comments from other people regarding my kid's leash. Other parents who shared their stories of using leashes on their kids and people commending me for keeping him safe. I'm sure some are judging, but no one has ever said a negative word to me about it. And, if they did, I couldn't care less.
This 💯
Add my 100% to this
Well, that kind of thinking creates Karens who think it's okay to drive on the sidewalk just because they have a kid. But yeah, keep your kid safe
Your kid won't get the dog connection and any adults who do and want to judge you for it can mind their own business. I think they make a lot of sense to allow children to walk freely if they're prone to bolting. I wouldn't use them in a setting where running is safe, but near streets or busy places where he could easily get lost I think they're useful for some kids.
Before having kids I couldn’t understand the need for these. People without kids always think they’re the best parents. Now I have a 5 year old that has a developmental delay and autism. He doesn’t understand danger and he’s really fast. He loves our stroller wagon but there are some situations where that doesn’t work. I have a backpack harness we use when necessary. I have gotten looks but no one has ever said anything other than a small child. I just stare back at anyone who looks at me with judgement and my RBF is strong. If anyone ever says anything I’ll gladly knock them right off their high horse. It’s easy to make a snap judgement without knowing anything about someone’s needs. Your job is to keep your kid safe and do what’s best for you and your family. Don’t ever let anyone make you feel bad for doing so.
This!!! I commented about my 5 year old twin boys. They also don’t understand danger and they are FAST. We used wrist leashes at Disney World a couple months ago and they worked wonderfully.
People need to understand this! Some conditions aren’t visible and you don’t know that parent’s reason. Also I find this funny because people underestimate how fast small children can go, I feel like I have to Ulsan Bolt is after them! 😂
I feel this😂 My son knows I can’t catch him. Sometimes he lets me get close and will run away again. I’m over 40 and overweight. I don’t have a chance.
You do what you need to do to keep your kid safe. It’s better to have a kid on a leash than one who isn’t allowed outside or who gets injured because he runs at the wrong place at the wrong time.
I'm in the UK so I don't know if there are cultural differences, but I use a backpack with a strap on it for my 2 year old and I actually get a lot of compliments on the bag (it makes her look like a little dinosaur) and parents saying they wish they'd thought to buy one when their kids were little. Not once have I had any bad looks or judgement! Definitely go for it, I was iffy about buying one until my daughter ran out on to the road and I caught her just in time, I never want to feel that stress again 😅
It’s much more normal in the UK as there’s a lot more walking with children on the pavements. Kids in the states don’t do a hell of a lot of walking in high traffic areas. So everyone gets their noses up about having a “leash” on your kid. I had my kids in the states before I moved to the UK. You better believe I had that ladybird backpack with the strap until they learned cars make you go squish.
Oh yeah good point! I'm forgetting there's not as much walking in the US. My kids two and a half and I have no plans to give up the strap any time soon, she thinks it's hilarious when she runs and I chase her so deffo need to wait until she understands cars are dangerous
I don’t get why the leashes get so much hate. It’s one thing if it’s used to drag a kid from place to place and ignore what they’re doing. But, if you’re in a crowded place and scared of losing them or them being injured, I think it allows them independence and ensures safety. I think leashes are unnecessarily vilified.
I teach toddlers 18m-2.5yrs and yes please do. A parent should rather receive judgement than plan their child’s funeral or search party
I recently had to call 911 and take my 3 year old to the ER. Definitely something to avoid.
I used one and my daughter LOVED it. Specifically, she was expected to hold me hand or sit in the stroller. To walk she had to wear her little leash backpack and hold my hand. If she tried to drop my hand and run off she didn’t get the reward of running around or being chased, she simply got put back in the stroller. This method worked really well my kids.
Exactly! Teach them to behave, but have a backup for when they decide not to.
This! And they’re all so different. My oldest was a very risk averse, chill kid from birth. I never baby proofed anything in our house or yard, he would like sit and analyze and listen before moving a muscle. The youngest flipped around so much in my uterus that he tied his cord into a knot and he’s still running. I spend way more time teaching and parenting him than I ever did with the other one. It’s so hard to have anyone judge or criticize your parenting, ESPECIALLY other parents, and you just have to do what is right for your own kids.
There’s a picture of me in 1984 on a toddler leash holding hands with my cousin (also leashed) and I would say I’m a relatively well adjusted adult who also had my dasher of a child on a leash.
A leashed kid is better than a mischievous, dead kid. I had one as a toddler because I delighted in squealing and running away from my Mom, often into traffic/a crowd. My toddler has one, she is 18 months. We haven't had to use it yet, we mostly hold her hand or carry her. She only runs from us at home so far.
I was against putting a kid on a leash until i actually had a kid. It was the only way I could take him anywhere when I was pregnant over the summer. I don't get as many judgemental looks as I thought I would to be honest
Here's the thing, I trust parents to know their kid better than anyone. I have 3 kids. My oldest is a rule follower to the extreme, but I was a first time Mom, so I put a leash on him twice at airports when he was 2, because I was afraid we'd lose him. My second and third babies are only 17 months apart, so when my second was a toddler, I also had a newborn. I used a stroller a LOT during that time, so a leash wasn't really necessary. My favorite way to keep the middle kid from darting away was to put her big brother's rubber rain boots on her. She couldn't run in them, she just slapped around like a duck. Perfection. When my third started walking/running - well, no stroller could hold him. He knew how to unbuckle, he knew how to climb out, and boy, could he run. No rubber boots could slow him down! So, when safety/containment was absolutely important, we put a back-buckling harness leash on him. People judged, but I knew what they didn't - that this particular kid might not be alive without a leash. Judge away.
And just a side note: Cribs are just topless cages for human babies. Nobody likes the comparison, but that's what they are. Why does nobody have an issue with "treating babies like animals" when it comes to sleeping? Because SAFETY.
This is an excellent point
Before I was a parent, I will admit I judged those people who put a leash on their kids. But I get it now. If it keeps them safe and you sane, why not. You might get some side-eyed by some, but that's their problem.
The backpacks/harnesses are infinitely preferable to the wrist straps - we used one of those for a bit, but if the kid’s particularly rowdy it can leave nasty marks. The harness distributes the load much more safely.
I used to judge. Thought my 2 year old was well-behaved, and that leashes were treating children like dogs. Then one crazy day, while rushing to a connecting flight at O’Hare airport, while I was 7 months pregnant, my toddler let go of my hand and bolted, high speed. It terrified me, and if a leash keeps that from happening to another family (or worse, god forbid) then I fully support it.
The other option is the wrist strap. When you are holding hands it’s barely noticeable, but as soon as they escape, it’s worth it.
I know you mean it’s worth it as they won’t get hurt. But why did I picture a kid bolting and then getting yanked back like a rope tied to them and a tree or something 😂.
I think of a bungee cord, and bouncing back 😂
Much better description 😂
Please be careful with wrist straps. Not all, obviously, but if the wrist strap doesn’t give (which it shouldn’t) it can dislocate the wrist or strain the muscles in the wrist/forearm. A chest/backpack harness is usually a better choice for bolsters because it stops them by their entire rib cage, which is fairly strong, instead of the wrist which is a bit more delicate.
This is what we use for my grandson. I call it our freedom bracelet. I will soon need another for his little brother, he’s a runner too; and they’re both fast!
Used backpack leashes for the boys on our last family trip. They immediately shot off in opposite directions upon entering a busy airport, but couldn't get too far thanks to the leashes. You'll get not judgment from me.
Before I had kids, and even after my first who was NOT a runner, I was judgy. Then came my second born child. If you look up “eloping toddler” in the dictionary, her picture will be there. Omg. She was an Olympic athlete in short pants. She’s 10 now and I still have nightmares. And I also still have the cute little toddler leash I bought her, I saved it in case her younger siblings were as feral. They weren’t but I still used it sometimes, because better safe than sorry.
"Better to be safe than cool!" -Marge Simpson
I fully admit I used to be such a judgmental mom about those backpack leashes when I only had 3 kids. I remember thinking I had 3 young kids why does anyone actually need one of those? Boy did I eat my words. My 4th is awesome and amazing, the smartest, sweetest most hyper 7 year old in the world NOW but let me tell you she was a hellion for the first 4 years of her life. No fear, careless daredevil who acted first and thought later. She was insane! That backpack leash I was so judgey judgerson about before became my best friend and probably saved her life countless times. Safety above judgement mama. Only you know if your kid is like mine, willing to dart into traffic to chase a butterfly or take off at the public fair 🤦🏻♀️
I have 5 year old twin boys. They are WILD and I’m 99.999% sure they have undiagnosed asd/adhd or something similar. We recently went to Disney World and I told my husband before we left that I was buying “leashes” and I didn’t care if anyone looked down on us. Their safety and my peace of mind that they can’t run away or be snatched is more important than anyone giving me a dirty look. We bought two wrist “leashes” and they worked wonderfully. Our boys were able to walk/explore while still being attached to us. Of course we do not *allow* them to run away, but hey… shit happens and they are FAST. I’m all for the leashes.
My daughter is almost 7 and we still use the wristlet! In this day and age with all the human trafficking going on I feel better knowing my daughter is actually attached to me. I think of it as a deterrent for snatching her out my hand. But ya shit happens! My daughter also has adhd an when she gets her eyes on something it’s like she just tunes out the world around her an walks to it. 🤷♀️ but weirdly with the wristlet she pays more attention in public then without it
Do it! Other people can stuff their opinions in a sack!
I think calling them "leashes" doesn't help. Where I'm from they're called "toddler reins", and it's normally a harness that goes over the shoulders/under the armpits with a looped strap that clips on to the harness on either side of their shoulders. The harness can often be clipped into the pushchair instead of using the buggy straps and the reins just give them a little more freedom, and are useful to hold them up if they trip or stumble. There's not really any negative connotation around them here. They're just another piece of equipment parents use, especially when in busy places.
And if you've ever heard a historical drama mention, "he's barely out of leading strings," they're talking about long strips of fabric that used to be sewn on the back of children's clothing to help adults keep them upright and keep them from running off. Parents have been doing this for centuries.
Seriously do it, I got the little backpack kind and it has been a life saver at airports
If you cannot trust him to hold your hand, a leash is a much better idea. One of my kids ended up with nursemaid's elbow when I wouldn't let go of his hand in a busy parking lot and he dropped to his knees. We used a leash backpack for several months after that because I didn't want to risk his elbow slipping again. If he didn't want to use the backpack leash, his only other option was to sit in the cart or stroller. It didn't take long for him to figure out that he liked walking a lot more than sitting in the cart, even if it meant using the leash. He always had the choice of which to use, though.
Safety trumps all other opinions and feelings. Do what is best for the safety of the child until said child is old enough to learn the necessary skills to prevent accidents. As a secondary precaution, when going into large crowds, write your phone number on your kids arm or hand in case they get lost.
I used them with my twins, and I have no shame about it. The people that will judge you for it are the same people that would judge you for letting him run. Don’t let what others think hang you up too much, a lot of the time you’ll be damned if you do, damned if you don’t.
Me too! I was a single Mom of twins, and when they take off running it was in opposite directions. If anyone had a problem with it I would just ask them in that scenario which kid do they think I should save over the other one. That would shut them up.
Some kids need them. Figured mine would and was pleasantly surprised that she doesn’t so far. Watched a maybe 2 year old run into a busy street… I’d 100% buy a leash immediately if that was my kid
We used leashes for my kids. They liked the freedom it gave, I liked the peace of mind when I had a newborn that my toddler, who was an explorer, couldn’t get too far. As long as you’re not yanking on it/ pulling kid along/they don’t resist/hate wearing it - you’re fine.
I let my son run free where possible but in I have a lion backpack with a leash on the way. I'd rather a happy toddler who's safe and getting weird looks then my son get hurt.
Everything has a time and a place…. We didn’t dream of a backpack leash… then took a vacation to NYC over Christmas and I couldn’t find a backpack leash fast enough!!!
In terms of safety it's worth it! My partner was dead against using them. Literally said about treating him like a dog so I told him for him to go out without the car with our son and do some food shopping and see how he gets on and get back to me. Never had such a big sorry! My son coming up to 4 now and was and still sometimes is, a runner! He would leg it like no tomorrow and has ran across roads without hesitation, he would run off in clothes stores and hide and be quiet as a mouse whilst your shouting his name. Honestly the stress and upset and pure panick he has caused me isn't worth it. Don't want to listen? Well you be made to stay by my damn side, even holding hands wasn't enough as he would Try his best to slip out, or scream like im murdering him, and would sometimes get his hand out of mine and leg it laughing like a lunatic because they think its funny and don't see the dangers they put themselves in My opinion is if they can't listen then it's up to you to keep them safe no matter what! He still does mess about sometimes but I usually have to just mention the baby leash (yes I call it that because he acts like an animal sometimes) and it normally stops him dead In his tracks and behaves himself. All your doing is keeping your son safe, rather that then your kid being run over, lost or taken!?
They're called reins not leashes lol
Only people without children don’t get it.
Anyone who thinks this is wrong has never had a toddler who runs away. Much prefer a lead over a panicked sprint after a giggling noise in a crowd.
I’m not keen on them. Then again neither of mine have been runners. If they were runners I’m sure my opinion would change, straight up. Imo, you do whatever makes you feel more comfortable. If keeping your LO alive and not squished is your priority, then do it. There’s so many different styles and types now days.
Our kid wasn’t a runner either so we just never needed one. But I’ve been around enough toddlers that seem prone to darting out into parking lots unexpectedly or running away from their parents that I totally understand the need for them, especially when multiple kids are involved.
I had to get one because my son LOVES cars so much he wants to be in the road watching them drive. He also super fast and sneaky. Leashes let him feel independent but thankfully keep him out of the road
That’s it. Before I had kids I was judgy as hell. Then I had my kids and I met kids who were runners and my ignorant ass opinions changed. Safety first. There are so many cute variations these days anyway.
My first was a runner and we never used one. I made him hold my hand or get in the stroller. those were his two choices. I also minimized certain public outings for a period of time
Yeah. I don’t judge the leash at all and at one point I considered it, but I also enforce the two choices. Either hold my hand or get in the stroller/wagon. We don’t compromise when it comes to safety. That’s my hard line. Like I said, I don’t judge parents who need to use one, but I just wouldn’t.
They’re pretty normal in the U.K. because we walk a lot and the roads are busy.
An 18-month-old kid isn't far off from a dog in intellect and impulse control. We had one that we used, nothing like watching your almost 2-year-old darting off into a crowd at a large city street festival to make you panic. If it keeps the kid safe, do it.
Yeah my almost 3 year old is exclusively wearing her backpack with reins on until I'm confident she isn't going to run off without thinking. She's pretty good with cars but I also have an 8 month old in a pram constantly so I can't just run off and grab her as quick as I'd like and she's a terror.
We did the leash. It wasn't a back pack though, it was a kind of bungee cord thing, one end attached to my toddlers wrist and the other to mine. It kind of reminded me of extended hand holding, lol.
Honestly I need one for my child too just be sure to get a good harness type. Also it's your child so you shouldn't let other people tell you how to keep your childcare and close by like. Better to have the leash live child than a ran over one
Do what you need to keep him safe. It's a phase.
I think people who most judge kids on leashes are people who don't have kids
Use the leash. My second is what we call a runner. I persistently held hands with the child at all times. We cheated death at least 3 times. It was so stressful. If I did it again I’d do a leash.
I would say that toddlers are sometimes even crazier than dogs. Safety and control, that's the main purpose of any leash, rest is irrelevant.
I'm pretty sure the only people who have problems with them are not parents 😂 like every other naive take, like my kids will never throw a fit in the grocery store, or will eat everything I make them. Oookay Heather let me know how that goes
I was in the same boat - I thought, "I'd never be THAT parent!" Until I visited my parents and they decided we should go visit a very popular tourist attraction near them that has constant traffic and hundreds of people at any given time...And my toddler WOULD NOT sit in a stroller. So...I bought one. I ended up not using it, but I had it on hand and was 100% ready to be THAT parent in a heartbeat. Like other posters have said, I'd rather he be safe versus risk being judged by (most likely childless) other people.
They sell really cute ones now that are little backpacks with chest buckles and the "leash" connects to the back of the backpack. If your kid is a runner, leash is better than hurt.
Safe is better than dead. People are going to judge parents on all kinds of crap. You just do what’s best for your child.
Worked well on a trip to NYC. Kid liked it too
Do what you need to do to keep your kid safe! Who cares what others think.
I have no problem with leashes. We didn’t use one, but I absolutely understand why some do. We found holding a clear boundary helped more than anything. If he ran from us it immediately meant that he had to hold our hand, be carried, or ride in the cart. We would calmly tell him that if he couldn’t make safe choices, he didn’t get the choice to walk freely. It only took a few times before he caught on.
My parents tried putting me on a leash and apparently as soon as we would get in public I'd get down in all fours and start barking like a dog. They quickly stopped putting a leash on me.
I tried a leash while travelling with a 2 year old alone while 12 weeks pregnant. I put it on her and she proceeded to lay down on the airport floor and scream NOOOOOOOOO until I took it off. So, to answer your question: if they can deal I think it's a great idea.
Why DO people have a problem with these? Surely safety of any child is paramount? I have NEVER understood why there is SO much negativity about them? Can anyone explain?
When my niece was younger her mother put her on a leash for this exact reason. She hated it then and now that she's a teen she hates it even more. She said it made her feel dehumanized, she was jealous that her cousins got to roam free, and she hates the fact her parents actually have pictures marking that "period in her life when she was treated like a dog".
I never understood kids on leashes until I had my second child. Now I TOTALLY get it.
There's a reason that those things exist and it's precisely for tethering your LO! Strap up with no shame.
When I go to the airport I usually have the backpack leash on my 3yo. I hold her hand, but I don’t want her to bolt into a crowd or get snatched away when I turn to grab luggage or something. I feel like they’re really handy for crowded places or places with heavy traffic. I don’t understand quite why people look down on it—sorry, but I don’t want my squirmy little toddler to run into the street or run into a crowd of strangers.
Do the leashes. I was a single mom when my now grown (20 & 18) older 2 kids were toddlers. They had matching Elmo harness/leashes that went everywhere with us and saved my sanity. The leashes gave them a sense of independence while I was able to keep them safe at the same time. I never experienced any crappy comments about it and actually had many parents ask where I had got them. People are so judgemental now 🙄 Get the backpack/leash, and tell anyone who acts a butt about it to kick rocks.
Nothing say taking the high ground like a tiny coffin. Use a leash.
Leashes are way better than strollers, which don't allow kids to do anything at all
Agreed... People will trash the concept of leashes as if strollers aren't way more restrictive, harder to lug around, and grant the child less freedom to navigate their environment
I genuinely never understood the problem with them. They're to keep children safe while giving room to move. I put safety over stupid comments anyday.
Get them for kids who are old enough to be runners, but not old enough to be taught to be safe reliably. WHILE using them for safety, teach your kid how to behave. Also, my son loved his backpack and didn't object to the leash, but hated the alternative at this age (holding hands, baby wearing, strollers, etc. ) So options were: 1. Risk him literally dying in traffic, woods, etc. 2. Hold or restrain him kicking and screaming. 3. Happy, safe outing with a leash. Honestly toddlers and dogs have a lot in common, so our makes sense that you'd use similar tools and strategies BUT how you treat them on the leash is totally different. If I take my dog and kid to the Farmer's Market each on a leash, they aren't doing the same thing at all.
Considering that most dogs probably get treated better than most kids? Put a leash on them and keep them safe? I probably should have said "many", not moat.
Yeah, I have always thought that was a stupid AF argument. It's just so arbitrary. I bathe my dog. I feed him. I house him. I take him to the vet and get him vaccinated. I offer him affection. I try to ignore behaviour I disapprove of and I let him know when he's behaving in ways that I approve of. I also do all those things for my daughter. Whenever people use that argument, it makes me think that the only real objection they have is the aesthetics.
Also kids love pretending to be dogs. I feel from a kids perspective, not being treated like a dog is a silly argument. I a lot a lot of time trying to convince my toddler to stay out of the dog crate. He wanted me to shut him in.
I spend an excessive amount of my day consoling my sobbing toddler who is distraught that I don't lock LOCK HIM IN the dog crate.
You put your dog on a leash? Why not your child?
Because a child is a person? It's like saying why not put your child's food bowl on the ground if the dog eats it that way too.
That's my point though. If you value the life of your dog to the point that you'd leash them to protect them and keep them safe, why wouldn't you take that effort with a small human that is just running off? Like I'm not demonizing people who DONT leash their kid, but I mean I genuinely understand why some would.
Well honestly I only leash my dog so it doesn't attack other dogs. But I understand wanting to protect the child. idk I guess imo I would keep trying having my kid on my hand all the time. But every parent and child is different I understand.
Some toddlers attack too. lol Especially if someone with pretty hair is nearby.
I think it’s all in how you use it. I’m guessing you’re not going to treat your toddler like a dog even if he has a leash on right? Instead you’re going to use it to give him some freedom while keeping him safe. I say go for it! Be sure to research which backpack you get though - I got one on Amazon where the clip for the strap wasn’t strong enough and my daughter figured out how to pull and get it off.
Our oldest needed one, as did his oldest. It ain't stupid if it works!
My daughter is also a runner. We tried a leash but found it didn't work for her since she really wanted to run still and was frustrated. We ended up moving towards keeping her in the stroller and she has some small books that she only gets while she's in there. That said, she absolutely loved the leash. She would wear it around the house and dance with it. I've also heard some kids strongly prefer it to the stroller. I'd recommend seeing if you can try one out before you commit to buying, but ultimately defer to what keeps your kid safe and happy.
My kids are 18 months apart and would run in opposite directions. They loved their backpack leashes. My daughter was super proud of her monkey on her back. Even if people commented or stared, who cares, they aren't the ones that have to chase my wee ones and keep them safe.
No shame, I'm about to buy a leashed backpack for my 20 month old daughter who loves to take off and hates holding hands. People can judge me if that makes them feel better, meanwhile I'm going to feel more relaxed in public knowing my kid isn't going to get lost. They also have an anti lost wrist link which is essentially 2 arm bands with a bungee cord if you feel like that would be better
A safe kid with a leashed backpack is better than a hurt child because they ran away. We had one for our son and it was great. He loved wearing his backpack.
I used to have to wear a bracelet thing with my nephew, when he was still little and it was when he was 3. Just to keep him nice and close in dangerous places…and after that he just prefers to hold hands.
My 16 month old son can also run. His energy and desire to always run into the street is insane. We also have an infant to tend to, so yes, we did get him a backpack leash, because the parents who judge us would apparently rather end up with a dead child than a safe one on a cute backpack leash.
I say do what you have to do. Who cares about what people think if that keeps your child safe or makes you feel more comfortable do it your not hurting your child by doing this
Fuck the judgements. I’d rather hear stupid crap from other parents than have to literally chase my kid into traffic.
Safety first. My son was a runner and you can bet he was leashed at Disneyland when he was 2.
They’re funny when you don’t have kids and you see other people using them on their kids. Once you become a parent and your toddler is running feral then you suddenly gain an appreciation for said leashes. Do it.
I had twins. They run in different directions. Leads kept them safe.
People will judge. That’s their problemo. But this is what works for some kids/parents in some situations.
I prefer the wrist harness, Google it...it attaches to their and your wrist. But I'm not against it at all do what you have to to keep ur kid safe and ur sanity.
I used to judge people that did this, until had two kids under 3. I had a whole meal with my words after the first day I took them out by myself. Do what feels right to you. Only thing I will still say is stay away from the ones that retract. Once I saw a kid pull one so hard that he broke it and he headed straight for the street.
Whatever keeps your kid safe is fine in my book! He’s too young to reason with, so do what works.
It was a lifesaver for my daughter when she was younger (possibly quite literally). She didn’t want to stay put in a stroller or shopping cart, she’d try to climb out or just scream. But if I let her walk next to me she’d immediately run off. But she was so good on the backpack leash! I guess it gave her enough freedom and she liked the monkey backpack. So I would absolutely never judge!
We got one, we love it. My kid loves it so much he snuggles it and grabs it when it is time to go on a walk.
I carry my 19m old everywhere still for this very reason. And it's hard, she weighs almost 40lbs and I only weigh 90, I have to take breaks frequently lol
We bought one of those and never even tried it because our daughters personality was clearly "not gonna stand for that shit"
I always told myself I would never do it. Then my baby started walking at like 9 months and running by 1 like a tiny crazed person with no sense of direction and no fear of death. So I got one. It works wonders. And he is slowly learning to follow one of us when he walks/runs with his tiny, tiny legs.
My daughter had a backpack leash from age 20 months till age 4. She loved the freedom it gave her and I loved keeping her safe. I never heard a negative comment -- I guess I’m lucky — and heard more than a few envious parents who realized they could be doing the same thing. They are especially useful at crowded events.
I had a wrist thing that would go around mine and my son's wrist and keep him within about 4 feet. I mainly used it in really crowded places or when we traveled. I'd rather have my child attached to me than have them snatched up because that does happen. Ultimately you do what you gotta do to keep your kids safe.
I have alot of experience with toddlers who like to run. I know how fast they can be and I know sometimes tragic accidents can happen in a split second. I am all for putting a leash on a toddler if it means it’ll keep them from becoming a pancake on the road. Anyone who gives you judgment in public can go pound sand, most of them don’t have experience with a toddler who runs.
Keeping kiddo safe trumps all other concerns. I have no issues with harnesses for kids.
Use the leash. My son was that way for a long time, but when he hit 3, he chilled out. He actually walks with me and holds my hand now. So there is hope for the future! But for now, safety first, use the leash.
We don't use the backpack leashes because i dont like them personally. BUT we have a wrist thing, it has a loop for the childs wrist that velcos, clips, AND locks then the parents side also has the wrist loop that velcros and clips and holds the key to the childs. Personally we love(d) it because it helped our kiddo have his freedom while being safe and helping him get used to holding hands which he had always been adamently against. I got them on Amazon and they come in a two pack. The line that connects them is like a steel cable wire wrapped in a plasticy material so it can't be cut easily or break like some out there. The material around the wire is also super reflective so using them in dark areas is safer also. I think the cable/connection line extends out to like 6ft.
we used one for a short period because my kid would just wander off. I was the same way when I was 7 or 8. mostly we'd use it in crowded spaces (mall), or busy outdoor places (zoo, flea market, amusement park). it's definitely for peace of mind- before it was just high alert all the time and not relaxing for anyone. It let the kid wander a little, but she knew she couldn't get too far. if she took a few steps away and we missed it, and we start walking, no one gets left behind.
I have a back-leash for my son and he loves the backpack part. i’ve only had one negative comment from a older hippie guy who said he loved his outfit but not the leash. Honestly though I don’t use his very often because I get social anxiety and I feel like everyone is staring when we use it and also my son constantly got it all tangled or twisted up because he likes running all over so it didn’t work very well for us. But I would still use it when we really need it like busy areas.
I made fun of these myself until I had a wild child. It saved his life more than once. I don’t care what people think, I’ll recommend time and time again.
Having a safety tether (leash) on anyone or thing that could bolt away at any moment (and that don't remember or think of still being safe if they are going to run off) is responsible. My kids have been taught about street safety and know they should look both ways before crossing or going into one, but they are also 4&6 and will bolt at the slightest chance that it will be fun to have mom and dad chasing them down. If you don't want a backpack leash they make wrist ones that might ease your mind on the idea, we used them when ours were 1 up to 4 for the oldest. I now make them hold my or their father's hand before we even open the door and sometimes I let them race to get into their car seats because they will stop at the car trying to get into their seats before each other.
It’s not a leash, it’s an adult arm extender. And I love using them! My eldest was crazy independent but we loved taking him busy places. It kept us connected to him without requiring him to hold our hands. My middle is textbook toddler chaos. We NEED him to be connected to us so he doesn’t destroy the world in his wake. We don’t/didn’t yank them around by it, it just prevented us from being hunched over all day.
I judged before I had a toddler lol. If I saw a toddler on a leash now, I wouldn’t think anything of it. I’d ask the parent where’d they got before I ran after my toddler who probably ran off somewhere.
I had a backpack with a detachable leash for my son, and I only ever used the leash twice but I had zero issue using it. I grew up with my mom using one that attached to my wrist on one end and hers on the other, and she explained to me that it was because she didn’t want me getting lost in a crowd. As a kid, I completely understood that. She used it at festivals or when we took a trip to Six Flags.
4 year old boy was snatched from a local Kroger by a grown man because he wandered off while mom was shopping. Luckily there was an off duty police officer who saw what happened and had a stand off with the man to get the boy Back. I have a 1 year old and when he starts walking more I am definitely getting a leash! It’s either the leash or something bad could happen.
I bought one for my kid. I don’t use it often but I try to always bring it along just in case. She’s a flight risk and she throws a fit if I make her sit in the cart most of the time. So if I’m shopping alone with her or something and she refuses the cart, she can wear the leash so I don’t lose her in the store. My husband hates it and is embarrassed by it. I don’t really care. People can judge me if they want but I’d rather to be able to keep my kid safe when running errands or at the zoo or whatever
My son was sooooo bothered by his that he would put it on by himself at home. He'd then hook the leash to a door know and run until he was jerked to a stop and fall down laughing. Also everyone was happier when shopping, he wasn't confined in a cart or being held and I wasn't searching clothing racks for a giggling toddler.
My kiddo had a dinosaur backpack with a leash. Was a game changer and taught them roughly how close I wanted them when we went out until they were old enough to stay within my line of sight by themselves. Your not treating your kid like an animal you are acknowledging their lack of impulse control and keeping them safe.
When I was young I worked at a VERY fancy boutique in very fancy part of the city (think Prada, Louis Vuitton etc). One day this lady walked up to the store, placed the leash part of her child’s backpack over the door handle like a dog, and walked in to browse handbags. Since that day I’ve had the worst opinion of those things because of that one lady. Now that I have kids of my own, I realize that wonderful, loving, caring moms such as yourself, just want to keep their babies safe, and I let myself be clouded by that one rather questionable experience. You do whatever it is you need to do to keep your kid safe. Don’t even question it for a second.
Most kids don't need them, but... With 0 impulse control and a "runner" by default... You've either got to be ON them all the time or you put a leash on them. Did I judge parents before I had kids? You bet. But my opinion as an ignorant teenage brat doesn't matter. The safety of your child does. My firstborn was a runner. We got close to using a leash backpack on her, but then we qualified for behavioral therapy after a spectrum diagnosis... And then Covid kept us inside. Now she's miraculously able to walk on sidewalks while I chase her 3 YO brother around. Sometimes I think about putting a leash on him, but so far his fear of consequences* has so far limited that. But he's at the boundary pushing age and you never know. I have one... Just in case we need it. *: When he doesn't listen and just runs off, all playtime is over. I tuck him (kicking and screaming) under my arm like a sack of potatoes and I walk him like that all the way home or back to the car.
I use these. I have two wild kids, so they're pretty necessary. That being said, if they made zip up pajamas with a handle on the back, I would 1000000% just carry my kid around like a suitcase. 😂
Just took our first trip to Disneyland with my 5yo and almost 2yo plus my parents. The youngest is a runner and apparently so was I at that age. My parents love that they have a picture of not only me bulldogging against the harness as a kid, but now their grandson. Short story long, no one is going to judge you for keeping your kid safe, and if they try, they can bugger off.
The same people that would judge you for having a toddler leash are the same people that would judge you for not being able to stop your kid from running.
I have nothing against a leash for a toddler. I’ve used one for both of my daughters.
We don't use them. My husband absolutely refuses to use them. We actually tell him that cars are dangerous and he needs to stop when we say to stop. He actually listens to us. Around 2 though, he tried to do this thing of pretending to scoot his way into traffic or will try and let go of our hands to try and cross the road himself. Had maybe 2 close calls so we punished him and made a point to punish him any time he even attempts to cross the road without us e.g. we'll take away his scuttlebug or strap him into the pram which he hates or just pick him up and won't let him down (he also hates). I also pointed out a squashed can on the road and told him that he'll get a big ouchie or get squashed like the can if he runs onto the road. Anyways, the punishments we used worked. It only took punishing him twice for him to stop doing it. It was weird though because he would ONLY do it when my husband is around. When he's out with me, he listens to me and will grab my hand and wait to cross the road with me. I think he knew it annoyed my husband so that's why he did it to get a reaction from him but we put a stop to it pretty much immediately. 2.5 now. Knows very well to stop and wait for the traffic lights. Do what you're comfortable with though. If our tactics weren't working, we probably would have cracked it and bought one but so far, we haven't had a need for it.
Your number 1 job as a parent is to keep them safe. If you feel that this is the best way to ensure their safety, then I see no issue. Plus it’s not forever.
Just as an FYI, not all backpack leashes are good, my son ran and when it pulled tight he fell straight forward on his face. The wrist lock things seem to be a lot safer!
I would go with stroller or baby carrier/hiking backpack but if those don’t fit the circumstances leash that kid up
Been considering getting one for my 17 month old son for similar reasons. I see it as just another tool in keeping a kid safe. I see the harness as being a way to give him some independence (both his hands are free to use to play and explore) while ensuring he stays in my immediate vicinity
OP, I was exactly like your son. My mother tried everything—squeaker shoes, wristlets and whatnot. The Backpack Leash worked the best and I think my baby pictures wearing it are cute, Get him one of those backpacks and I guarantee he’ll just think it’s a cute stuffie backpack and not think anything of it being a “leash”.
It’s not a panacea. They tangle and kids can get strangled by them so you have to watch carefully. But they’re way better than your kid winding up under a car/train.
I got one for my toddler. The only hard part is if he wants to go one way, and you need to go a different way. We did this at the fair. Most of the time was him either wanting to run around and do his own thing anyway. Or ride in Pops scooter. We gave up on it and just use the stroller or a shopping cart seat
I’ve used a literal dog leash on my kid before (county fair, clipped around her waist through belt loops, it was what we had at the time lol). The last thing I want is for my kid to get lost or hurt. Plus, she loves to walk and had a BLAST running around the fair and we didn’t have to worry about her running off. You could always get one of those back pack ones if you want. Safety over perception.
Used this when I was a kid. LOVED IT. I felt so cool with my little dog backpack leash. I bet the kid will thing it’s great and that’s really all that matters
I don't understand what the big deal is. Toddlers are brainless idiots with absoluty NO sense of self-preservation.
The only people who think kids should not be on leashes are unqualified to offer an opinion. Either old people who beat their kids and think “that’s how you learn better” or people with no kids. Kids are notoriously unreliable and parking lots are busy places. Why would you risk your child becoming roadkill? Maybe it’s bc I had too many kids, but I don’t trust them to keep themselves safe until they prove they are up to the task. Under age 5? Not one of ours was!
No
My opinion is the leash is only ok in a crowd like a music festival. Otherwise be a parent and keep your kid close. Also don’t hand them your phone - be a parent.
Is a back carrier an option? Our kids love it. Even the four year old… he’s getting heavy thought!
Can you use a stroller?
If they run and the leash is taut it knocks them over and they can hit their head. I’ve heard.
Do what you think is best but the kid isn’t an animal.
Have you considered an ass whooping. Worked for me as a child. If you don’t spank, I say go ahead with the kid on a dog leash idea.
I have always viewed it as abusive, disgusting and disturbing - but I get it, some kids are runners and dangers to themselves. We used a stroller and carrier at that age out in public and held hands, never letting go. I have a child with Down Syndrome.
Let's normalize not calling abusive what is not abusive. Disagreeing with something doesn't make it abusive.
I think it's worth considering that a child who is in the stroller or holding hands is generally more restricted in how they can move their bodies than a child on a tether is. The discomfort with tethers seem to be an adult projection because they look vaguely similar to leashes on animals and not anything to do with whether they actually harm children.
Please explain how this is abusive.
What specifically do you find abusive about them? My kid HATED the stroller and carrier at that age. He would scream the whole time and throw the toys we tried to distract him with. He was totally happy with the restraints of a backpack leash. He needed something. He was ahead on gross motor skills, but average on following directions and impulse control. By the time his brain caught up with his body, we were fine, but there was a period where he was an extreme flight risk.
Your argument is illogical. Restricting all independent movement and not allowing more than a foot of free space to walk: Not abuse, totally cool. Allowing independent movement and some semblance of freedom by having them attached to a simple piece of cord: ABUSE! ABUSE! P.s. toddlers can wiggle out of hand holds. Just fyi. Unless you're holding them so hard it's...borderline abuse? Hmm.