So, I’ve been thinking lately about how our Pumpkin is getting to the stage where she really wants to be out of the stroller when we go somewhere now. And as much as I’d like to give her some freedom, I worry about her letting go of my hand and dashing into a dangerous situation.
I’ve seen other parents using “safety leashes” with toddlers, and I have to admit I have mixed feelings about it.
Before I had a child of my own, I thought the baby on a leash concept was crazy! A child is not a pet and shouldn’t be treated as such – that was my line of thinking. But now that I have an independent toddler I can see the genius of the leash. It would allow the child a bit of independence to explore while still ensuring that they are within arms reach of the parent. Not that I think a parent should ever rely on a leash to keep their child safe- a parents still has to watch the baby every second. It just seems like having the tether between your child and you would eliminate those scary moments when a child dashed towards a road or into a crowd.
What do you think? I am still caught between thinking that a baby leash would be a great tool, but also feeling like it might be somewhat demeaning to my daughter to have a leash not unlike a pet dog. And if I’m honest I’m also a bit afraid of the looks I might get. I remember all too well how I thought I knew how to be a great parent…all before I actually was one! And Lord knows I had some serious judgment when I saw a toddler on a leash in those days!!
What do you all think? Has anyone had experience with safety leashes? I’d love to know what other people think when they see a baby on a leash?!?
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My name is Holly Homer & I am the Dallas mom of three boys…
Hi Shannon!
If you buy one, be ready for the snide comments. They are inevitable. But just get some tough skin and you’ll be fine.
I think the rule of thumb is this: use the tether (Don’t call it a leash! That does make it sound demeaning) for situations when you really feel you fear for your child’s safety. DOn’t use it on a regular basis. I had one that I used when I had to take all 3 kids to the store with me (when they were 4, 2, and 1). I also used it when I went to the airport by myself with a 2 year old and an 8 month old. I got the “What’s it like to treat your kid like a dog?” comments and looks, but I just snarked back with, “Not that it’s any of your business, but I’m more concerned with my child’s safety than your opinion of me.”
I have also seen the cool monkey backpack ones. I don’t judge those parents anymore. We all do what we need to. I mean, I’ve NEVER seen a person using one and, like, jerking on the tether or something. THAT would be pretty appalling. But some folks will judge anyway because that is their nature. Good luck whatever you choose!
I had three kids in three years and I never had to use a safety harness, but there are probably situations where I should have. I think that if you feel you need one go for it! I’d much rather be on the safe side than take a chance on your child running out into the street and getting hurt. I think that if you make it into a fun/special thing she won’t feel demeaned by it. I think that it’s all how you approach it. I had a friend that had a really cute on that looked like a monkey backpack.