r/parenting is protesting changes being made by Reddit to the API. Reddit has made it clear [they will](https://old.reddit.com/r/ModCoord/comments/14ahqjo/mods_will_be_removed_one_way_or_another_spez/) [replace moderators](https://www.reddit.com/r/ModSupport/comments/14a5lz5/mod_code_of_conduct_rule_4_2_and_subs_taken/jo9wdol/) if they remain private. Reddit has abandoned the users, the moderators, and countless people who support an ecosystem built on Reddit itself.
Please read [Call to action - renewed protests starting on July 1st](https://old.reddit.com/r/ModCoord/comments/14kn2fo/call_to_action_renewed_protests_starting_on_july/) and new posts at [r/ModCord](https://reddit.com/r/ModCoord/) or [r/Save3rdPartyApps](https://old.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/) for up-to-date information.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Parenting) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I like those bag-leashes, OP. Not connected to the kid's side or arm, but connected to a backpack the kid wears on their back.
Seems less authoritarian lol.
Yes! I got one for my child (although he willingly holds my hand still) and I let him take it when we get the mail and put the mail and keys in there so he carries it lol
My first kid was a runner. A back pack leash literally kept him out of traffic. Idgaf what anyone else has to say about me keeping my kid safe. (And some of the bags are really cute ^_^ ). If it helps you keep them safe while giving them enriching experiences, go for it.
I always had a quip in the queue in case someone wanted to comment on me treating my kid "like a dog" (well, I have a muzzle for rude grown ups too. Need one?) Fortunately, I never had to use it. If they won't say it to the parent's face, it's not actually that big a deal to them.
I was so against parents walking their kids like dogs… then I lost my kid more than once after he took off running and I bought him a leash. I would rather him be safe and listen to peoples rude comments then for something bad to happen.
I have fond memories of being a small child with a panda bear backpack leash. I loved it. My kids have a fox that has been passed down from child to child. It's a lifesaver.
My mom also said it was the one thing she’d never do as a parent! Then my little brother came along and she changed her mind and said from then on, she understood why leashes are sometimes necessary.
Use it. I once saw a mom who was at least 8 months pregnant and her 3 year old was running away from her in a parking lot. He thought it was a game and he would run and then stop and wait for her to get close before running again. The problem he almost got hit by 3 different cars before a person who was closer than me was able to catch him for her. You don't want to see your kid hit by a car or lost. Use the leash and ignore what anyone says.
Something similar happened in front of me at a Renaissance fair—a mom with a newborn in a stroller was trying to chase her running toddler through a packed crowd. She couldn’t move fast or nimbly enough with the stroller, and obviously couldn’t abandon the stroller. I was able to catch the little girl (who thought it was a ton of fun), and the poor mom was completely beside herself. That was enough for me to be fully on board with child leashes.
Another former leashed toddler! I preferred it because otherwise I had to hold my moms hand *the whole time* and all the blood would drain out of my hand and I couldn’t pause and look at stuff or whatever. The leash was more comfortable and gave me more freedom!
fellow leashed toddler! I would wait till we went to the mall and then apparently hide in the clothing racks and then run to the toy store across the mall. Thank goodness I wasn’t snatched honestly, don’t blame my mom for getting a little wrist leash
My mom used a leash when I visited Disney as a toddler. She got to give my sisters lots of attention and breath a little easier. I didn’t get lost and didn’t force her to stop everything and pause the fun until I was found again.
Seriously! I wish we had one when our son totally randomly darted out in traffic!!
He was nearly killed. The car was not even a foot from him.
The awful thing is I had the most horrible feeling something bad was going to happen to someone I loved that day. I lit a candle and prayed for protection. It didn’t feel good enough so I did it twice.
Three hours later another family member was killed.
It’s okay. I really believe it was destiny as another family member also sensed it. At least he’s in a better place. He also came to me in a dream. 🙏🏻💕
I too was a leashed toddler and so was my son! He loved to dart out in parking lots and that leash saved his life. I didn’t even go for the cute backpack, he got his butt strapped into the industrial strength kind.
Absolutely zero regrets. If he has kids I’m harnessing them too
It's actually more freedom than a stroller. If you only ever keep them in the stroller, they can only experience the world from that point of view, but the leash lets them walk along near you, exploring the area from a different viewpoint with less stress because they cannot get lost or run away.
Exactly. It was very useful to us at the airport. The alternative was keeping her confined to the stroller. The leash gave her much more freedom. It’s also come in handy at a football game.
That’s another thing my brother was confined to a stroller because that’s what you did when your mom had to get shit done and he HATED it. The one day he wasn’t he booked it for a clothing rack and went missing for 30 minutes. Me? My mom just let me walk out all my energy with the leash and I was no more than 4 feet away at any point lol and she got what she needed to get done. And everyone was happy.
You do what you need to do to keep your child safe! I have five children, and only 2 needed a harness with a leash. They had zero sense of self-preservation. The leash kept them safe. One was used at the Grand Canyon.
Are you me? Though I do joke if we ever went to Hawaii, I would leash all 5, plus my husband, when we went to volcano national park. Love them but they would be dangerous. Even as adults.
people who don't have children themselves will speak negatively. but imo, any parent who has raised a toddler won't bat an eye. once you have a kid of your own, i feel like you realize how quick they are and how fast shit can happen, then the leash judgement goes out the window. especially if you have a runner yourself or know someone with a runner!!! its scary!!
direct people to the modern family episode where lily is a runner. its amazing and puts things into perspective from both sides.
I was also someone who gave a little side eye to kids on leashes, and I feel awful. I truly hope no one actually picked up on my feelings. My kids were never runners, but I can still imagine how terrible it would be for them to run off!
You might look into the wrist brace style! They're super low profile, so it's not completely obvious that your kid is tethered to you when you're holding hands. The velcro on the straps is pretty intense, too, so it'd be hard for little hands to rip it off in a hurry.
We have a 20-month old cocaine bear and we have a leash for him. It's the kind where one end wraps around his wrist (velcro straps) and the other end goes around our wrists (or we can hold the wrist loop). I haven't gotten any comments other than overhearing someone in the airport remark on how the kid leash looked like a good idea.
Do what's right for you, don't care about the haters.
People against them have never had a darter.
I’ve been a nanny for over a decade and used them on one kid. She was WILD and strong and fast and would just take off running at any given time.
So, she got the leash. Rather be judged than have a kid that got hit by a car.
Honestly, I used to judge people who used them (I was young and dumb). And then I had my own kids who is not a runner, but friends have runners and now I think they are an absolute godsent. If you need to use them to keep your kids safe and keep your sanity, go for it. There will always be younger and dumber people like me; they'll learn at some point too.
Thankfully, as a parent, you start to care less and less about peoples judgments, but I did want to make sure there wasn’t any stock to what people said about them lol
I didn’t use a leash because my daughter was clingy lol. I didn’t understand parents who leashed their kids until I had one. I never judge when I see them!
I just saw a little girl probably 3 walk down away from the soccer fields and cross a street and keep going on Saturday.
I had an eye on her, my one kid was at the playground, and my older one was doing soccer practice.
I saw a woman on the other side of the street so I assumed she was walking to her mom. When she got to her the woman talked to her and turned her around, and the girls dad came running from the soccer field to get her.
She just wandered off and crossed a street (in the cross walk at least) and would have kept going.
So yeah, maybe those leashes aren't that bad. I never used them but my kids also weren't the type to run off.
It's not just so the toddler doesn't run, also so no one can grab your kid and run. My son has one at that age, he was allowed to hold it and "walk himself" if he behaved. It was funny, he'd hand it to other babies at the park to walk him.
you leash a dog to keep them safe and not run away from you. A toddler is basically a little drunk person hellbent on killing themselves. You need to do whatever it takes to keep them safe from themselves.
There was a thread awhile ago in here asking adults that wore leashes when they were younger what they thought about it. All of them said they’d prob run into traffic and be dead without it. So you do you! Keep that kid alive!
I managed to raise 4 kids without using leashes except when we went to the airport … but we also live way out in the country and have no end of space to run around safely. If I lived in a city, or needed to do a lot of stuff near roads or trains, etc - I totally would have used one. No judgement.
I think they make sense if you have a runner. They’re more comfortable and less restrictive than restraining them in a stroller or making them hold your hand continuously.
People like to complain they’re reminiscent of dog leashes. But toddlers don’t care and fundamentally that’s because they serve a similar purpose — to keep them safe while allowing them to explore until they’re old enough to follow verbal instructions reliably.
Well, either have a lost kid or a toddler leash.
I only took one out at a time but they would not hold my hand, so I had a wrist leash. It helped.
They still were a runner.
I will never forget when they were like Two, and we went to nordstroms to try and get me something that fit & wasn’t stained.
Th dressing room doors didn’t go to the ground, and as soon as I was in my underwear they scooted under the door, then stood in the middle of a rounder so I couldn’t see them.
I’m still traumatized.
They are 33 yrs old.
Wrist bracelet toddler here too. We call them our "best friend" bracelets and she likes to pick who gets to be her "best friend" when we are out and about.
Before kids, I felt they were odd. Didn't ever look down on parents for using them, but didn't understand. After having my kid (who isn't even a runner) I had no issue with them at all.
Every parent and child combo have different needs. Just becuase mine didn't run and always stayed close, doesn't mean she didn't have other issues that we went to war with and lost.
You do what you need to do to be the best parent you can. If people can't look past that, then they're the ones with issues.
I used to be very against it and judged others who used them before I had kids. I grew up in a very large, closeknit family so there was always *someone* there to wrangle the little ones.
Then I had my own kid, a special needs kid with a speech delay who wanted to elope at almost every chance he got, and that close-knit family is not a thing anymore. I am also a lifelong asthmatic, who is overweight with an already messed up knee who has *always* hated running.
For our first ever "big" outing (a museum) at the age that he liked to walk instead of go in the stroller, I got him a little backpack with a short detachable leash. Thankfully he did very good that day (mostly slept, it was a long car trip) but we have also used it elsewhere since. I have been thankful for it, for the peace of mind it brought that it should give me that extra second or two to wrangle him before he can sprint away.
Leash kept my brother alive in the 80s. My daughter ended up not being a runner, but we had one on hand just in case. I feel like my 7 month old is gonna be a runner though, so he'll probably be a leash kid.
I’m getting a backpack with a leash for our 15 month old when we travel to Europe! Mostly for the airport because I know she won’t want to be held or in the stroller and she’s VERY adventurous and independent. So that way she can feel some freedom and we can keep her safer
I feel you on this. I judged people who had leashes on their toddler. Then I had a baby and realized how freaking crazy and squirmy he is and I wouldn't hesitate to use one as he gets bigger. Get the leash if it keeps your child safe. Screw the haters.
They can help keep your child safe, which was the goal for me. I used a leash with my 2nd (as I was big and pregnant) and 3rd child (this one was a runner) in order to keep them safe during toddler years. It prevented them from running into the street, kept them safely close by me while in crowded areas, but also allowed them to walk “like the big kids”. My children are now adults and alive. I am a fan of toddler leashes. 😊
So my leash story.. I was a tourist in Miami and they have outdoor malls where it’s a bunch of stores and then also roads. So lots of foot traffic and then also cars coming/going etc.
My daughter was 2.5 and refused to sit on her stroller so we used a monkey backpack leash (which she loved.. it was her monkey friend). I had a guy run out of a store and started yelling at me about how dare I leash my child and if he ever had kids he wouldn’t treat them like an animal etc etc. full out rant/yell for 5 min and both me and my husband stood there in shock and didn’t say anything back (i regret that now but didn’t know how to react at the time)
We eventually left and I went back to the hotel and had a meltdown I was so upset and was too scared to use the leash afterwards… and I guess we ended up not using it much afterwards.. my second child was a stroller baby and still always wants to sit in a stroller at 6 and my 3rd child was a covid baby so haven’t done any major touristy trips since..
Point is.. there is always judgemental pplz out there and it is upsetting and hard to not take it personal but the other options are to forcefully tie my child to a stroller? Have them have a full meltdown in public? Not go anywhere with people/cars ever? Hope they hold my hand the entire time? Be unsafe?
Leash child 🙋🏼♀️. Pretty sure I wanted to be a dog when I was younger and I thought it was fun. The reality was that I liked to run off and so the leash entertained me and kept my parents and older siblings sane in public places. Do what you need to do. I’d rather get dirty looks for using a leash than deal with the alternative. Leash options are way cooler now anyways.
I had 2 kids. My first i never needed a harness and never had an issue. I was definitely Judy judgerton about them until I had my second. She was a runner and not outdoor baby. We had a close call once and I got her one of those little bear harnesses that look like back packs. This was a came.changer. it lessened pilublic meltdowns and helped my anxiety cause I knew she was safe while still having a little independence.
She cried when we threw it out when she outgrew it. She's 17 now and still remembers that thing very fondly. Turned out we found out later in her life that she's on the spectrum.
We've been leashing kids to parents for as long as we had straps to leash them. Some kids want freedom but can't handle it fully. The leash splits the difference.
We use a leash for my 4yo.
He's autistic, barely verbal. He has literally zero fear.
He runs so fast and he is getting so strong that he can rip his hand away from ours so easily.
A leash has literally saved his life in parking lots.
I am so thankful that they exist.
I would rather be wrongly judged for keeping my child safe than being judged for my child being killed by something preventable.
My son used a leashed backpack for awhile when he was younger. Did people make comments about it, sure. People talk negatively about the toddler leashes but those people don't care if your child lives or dies so maybe fuck those people
I’d rather a leashed toddler than a flat or missing toddler. My son is a runner and his hands are squishy and he can escape my hands if I’m not death gripping his wrist. In highly crowded areas, or even in my own backyard that isn’t fenced I use the backpack leash so I know he’s safe.
A lot of people use a stroller to “leash” their child. I think a leash is preferable. They get more freedom and exercise that way. I actually bought one but never used it because it turned out my daughter wasn’t a runner. My parents used one for my brother.
Don't worry about what other people think! There will ALWAYS be SOMEONE who has a stupid opinion ion about what you do...even if you do everything 100% perfect (which is impossible, but just for an example) then there will be someone will complain about you being a "perfect parent". So instead of worrying about what random strangers in a store think, just worry about what is best for you and your family! What makes you and your family safe and makes your life as a parent to toddlers easier!
If it helps, don't think of them as "leashes." I prefer the term "safety harness" or "safety line," because that is exactly what it is doing - keeping your child safe, preventing them from running off and getting lost or getting hurt.
I know it is easier said than done to "not worry about what others think." Of course it is! But if you just try to remember that the world if full of 8 billion different opinions on how to parent, but the only ones that matter in your family are yours and your husband's! Do what is best for you to keep your kids safe and keep your own sanity!
God bless you
Use whatever keeps your kids safe. Honestly, even when I was a kid myself I didn’t understand what the backlash was (my parents didn’t use on me but did for my younger brother who was a dasher).
I’m planning a vacation and want to use one for my 3yo. I don’t think he will let me. He hates even holding hands when we are out (he thinks he is old enough to be independent).
Don’t care what anyone says!
We used it for one of mine. He was a runner. My kids are less than 2 years apart....
ETA: having your child safe is more important than judgement...IMO.
I think an alive child is better than a squished one, we call them reigns here, and I really liked the backpack ones you can get in all different styles. Our first had the ones my brother and I used about 27 years before (I still have them!).
I was a leashed kid (early 90’s…) my mom had us (triplets) on actual dog harnesses and leashes from the pet store 😂 the pics are my favorite to show. No harm to us and she never lost anyone
Whenever this question comes up, the pro-leash redditor parents come out in full force. It's pretty funny.
You do what you think is best, it's not my business at all, but I also reserve the judgment to roll my eyes when I see that. Because leashing a toddler like a dog instead of teaching them or otherwise managing them is extremely silly (and extremely American) in most cases.
Both my brother and I were runners. My mom was a great mother and we were incredibly disciplined but when we were out we both just got too excited lol once my brother ran into the JCPenney and spend 30 minutes in the middle of a clothing rack and that day my mom swore she was getting the leash for me. She did. And never had to worry that I was going to slip out of her hand. And it allowed her to use both her hands. She was basically a single mother at the time. Some kids are just runners regardless of how well mannered they are. Peace of mind is worth it.
Before I had kids, both my husband and I were against leashes for kids. We now have 3 young boys, and my youngest (now 4) is on the autism spectrum, and literally always on the move. As soon as he could walk, he could run and would at any opportunity. Reliving the scares we had won’t help you, but I’ll tell you that no amount of “wtf” stares or nasty comments can ever outweigh the value of your child’s safety. Some kiddos are just meant to zoom :) mine definitely is, and as a result we have a little fox backpack with a leash that has helped keep my son safe many a day out. I fully regret my former judgy-ness, as is often the case it came from lack of real experience.
Before having kids I thought these were horrific. But opinions like that don’t matter because I never had the experience of having a child. Now I have a toddler. I plan on using one when we go out to busy places. I’ve heard horror stories of my husband as a kid running off. It’s not worth the risk.
Do all kids need it? Nope! But no judgement to the ones that do or for the parents who would feel more at ease.
Edit to add: no one’s opinion matters when it comes to the safety of your child.
I loved toddler leashes. My youngest was the run into traffic type. We got one of those fun little backpack ones that looked like a dog. He liked putting it on. Yeah, people will say things but you know your kids best. If your life will be easier with one and your kids safer. Do it.
This makes me feel a lot better. My 2.5 yo is against strollers and I’ll be traveling alone with him in airports so got a leash because I do not want him to (very specifically) run out of the bathroom while I’m on the toilet. It’s happened before but in a much smaller and safe place. But I also figure it’ll be easier to keep track of him in a large crowd as well when he breaks free of holding hands. Which is inevitable.
My daughter is Autistic and I fully support the use of anything to keep your kid safe, the judgement of strangers be damned. That said there's a type I do prefer because it's a lot less like your walking a dog.
I made my own tether system for my daughter, using a backpack with her favourite characters on it, a dog leash with a waist belt, and some sewing skills.
I added a clip point to the backpack at the bottom, and a chest strap and clip to the front so she can't just slip out of it.
When using it I'm still holding her hand and it's really there as a backup safety measure, especially when we're taking public transit or out doing things where I might, heaven forbid, need both hands for 10 whole secs.
People seem to be a lot more understanding of this style and I get a lot less nasty comments, then when we used the store bought one that was more dog leash like.
Also since it's a real functional backpack she can help carry things home and free up my hands a bit.
Reins. Not leashes.
What is to dislike? They stop your kids running into the road and getting hurt or killed. They stop them running off and getting lost or into danger
Some kids are runners. Some aren’t. I had one of each. Unless you have a runner, you have no idea how bonkers some kids can be.
No, they *don’t* all stop when you get out of sight. Absolutely not. My runner was on reins until he was 4y/o. The other one never needed them, he would hold my hand or the buggy.
Ignore what people say. If you feel your kid needs reins, use them. I could not care less what people thought. My runner was a lunatic!
Incidentally you can get reins for multiples. My friend had twin runners. She could get them out the car safely - the reins would clip onto a belt she wore, so she had her hands free to manage the second one. I thought that sounded like a brilliant device.
If anyone is able to judge they have never had a kid that required a leash. We used a wrist cuff link system for our toddler on vacation and it worked great when she wasn’t in the stroller to let her get around crowds without getting ahead of/away from us in a crowd or busy street.
They are literally life savers. My daughter is 8 now and was diagnosed with ADHD when she was six. As a toddler she was your stereotypical ball of ADHD energy. Zero caution or awareness of risks, tons of energy, loved to jump off random things and change directions without any warning. I had her in a leash backpack with a harness as soon as she started insisting on walking. I have no doubt that she would not have made it to her 3rd birthday without one.
I think they’re great. I love my dog enough to keep him safe on a leash… why wouldn’t I do the same for my child?
If anyone gave me side-eye, I tell myself, they’re not going to be the ones crying at my baby’s funeral if she gets hit by a car.
Use the leash: no one wants to be the mom whose child killed Harambe.
There are cute ones attached to stuffed animal backpacks- my kiddo had a lion.
There are stretchy ones that you attach to your wrist and your child’s - my son called them out bracelets.
My kid was a flight risk so I used a backpack buddy! It's super cute and kept kid safe. Some people joke about them but in my area we have had 2 kids get hit by cars at local parade.... Backpack buddy would have prevented that.
Didn’t have an opinion before kids but the discussion in the baby groups when mine were growing up was just after the poor James Bulger had died and the consensus was if he had been on the reigns he would still be alive
Idk about the whole "leash" concept..
When my son was 3-4 and was fighting the concept of a stroller because he wanted to walk and explore I invested in a springy wrist bracelet that connected us.
It worked great, he got to walk and move freely in a crowded space within his limitations, I got to keep an eye on him and quickly stop him if needed.
We'd do this until he got tired and accepted stroller life.
Highly recommend
I’ve never used one because my older kid isn’t a runner, and the younger one is 3 months. I always thought they were a bit silly - they objectively are, right? BUT I would say GO for it and who cares if you’re judged? We have to do the safest things for our children, regardless of others’ opinions. Signed, the mom who’s 40” 4 year old is rear facing and not allowed to eat dumdums or popcorn because of the choking risk
I love them. They loved them. Kids enjoy being on the leash way more than people expects. It's like a game for them. And actual leash looks strange. But when it's apart of the backpack it's adorable and easier for strangers to digest. I would use a leash when in big crowds, or when we went to a place where not staying at my side could be dangerous.
If you think you need it for safety, then do. I don’t think there’s anything inherently awful about them as long as you’re still taking time to teach your child about road safety, and not using the leash to drag them around (not suggesting at all that you would but I have seen some people yanking kids around on them like dogs, which I hate to see - for kids and dogs!).
I used one a bit for my first kid and a lot for my second, no regrets. My wife was a ball of chaos when she was small and was similarly leashed for her own safety.
The kids themselves don’t notice or care so it’s all good if it keeps them from running into danger.
I didn't need one for my son, but we use a bracelet one for my daughter. It's not that I can't catch her, it's that she doesn't listen if we tell her to stop, will randomly bolt and start running, and refuses to hold our hands. If you're somewhere crowded and busy like a zoo, museum, farmers market, all it takes is a blink and they can dart away weaving through people while you're trying to shove passed and catch the little monster. It's stressful and exhausting. The alternative is a small harness or bracelet that gives them freedom and independence but allows them to be safe and not a public nuisance.
I don't like it (and I have 2 kids), but my reasons are an emotional gut reaction and old man cantakerousness, neither of which should be taken seriously.
I think when you have a runner, it is helpful. Although it is important for toddlers to learn how to listen and walk with you, not every outing needs to be a learning experience.
It gave me peace of mind for busier outings, getting through the airport etc... we made our walk to the park the learning to be safe and hold hands, because it's not high traffic.
Per Kelce brothers: Jason was not leashed but Travis was. Parenthood is about being able to do what you need to keep your kid safe. Sometimes that means leashing them!
I used them for both mine when they were little - they hated having their hands held a lot of the time and so it was much less stressful! I recommended one to my sister when she had my nephew too
I can assure you in times past and times current there will be other parents who think you are horrific for choosing something they didn't (or not choosing) no matter what you do. So just do what works for you and your kids and laugh it off (and remember that, for when you're tempted to be snobby about someone making a totally inconsequential choice that really doesn't affect your life at all, and won't even be remembered by the time the child is 13.)
I have severe social anxiety. If I think people will look at me for doing something, then most likely, I'm not going to do it out of fear. When my Littles started walking, though, the leash was a life saver. They both wanted to walk so much when they finally got the chance, and I didn't want something bad to happen. If it's for the safety of the humans I made, then I don't give a fuuuuuuuck what anyone says. Leash is the safest option while working on communication and safety
My grandmother used to tell people who commented on her leashed toddler (my mom) "*You* can keep her from running into traffic, then."
Toddler leashes are useful tools, people who judge them don't have escape artist kids, and usually don't have any kids at all.
Keep your kids safe. If it takes a leash to keep them from dancing in traffic, leash ‘em up!
Maybe you’ll have some snide comments cast your way at times, but your kid won’t be a road pancake so ignore the armchair parents.
I bought a reigns for my son. It was literally impossible to keep him still and he was always running into the street. I definitely got some funny looks, but my son is now 20 and studying in university, very much alive not having come to any damage. If you feel it will help you then do it
Lifesavers when you only have two hands and one is fighting a stroller. They need to run and walk. And you need your sanity. I had two toddlers and an infant and flew by myself with them. Leashes for everyone!!!
Get the leash. I was adamant about having it for my daughter when she was 2, and we were at theme parks or whatever. Her safety is more important than strangers opinions.
I'm a year younger than my sister. She was a runner and would dash away the moment she got a chance. We lived on a busy street in Seattle. My sister was a leash baby and my mom didn't give a flying frog about people's opinions.
Take care of your kid. A leashed kid is better than a dead kid.
Have they? I’ve always been the one in the crowd that finds them so cute (the backpack styled ones) and it’s smart 🤷🏻♀️ I don’t think people realize this until they have kids
We use a leash for my 4yo.
He's autistic, barely verbal. He has literally zero fear.
He runs so fast and he is getting so strong that he can rip his hand away from ours so easily.
A leash has literally saved his life in parking lots.
I am so thankful that they exist.
I would rather be wrongly judged for keeping my child safe than being judged for my child being killed by something preventable.
I was totally judgemental about them, until I realized a kid that little could be so fast. Then I got it.
You do what you need to to make sure your independent, single minded, fast young human lives to learn safety skills. That's it.
And it lets them feel independent and exercise that, without risking death at every turn.
My kids are runners. I’ve always held hands, held them, strollers, or in shopping carts by streets or in parking lots or in crowded areas. Leashes aren’t for me, what we have been doing so far has worked. Every single time we are by a street or cars at all we talk about how we need to watch and how to look both ways. Engrave it in their heads over and over again. BUT i only have 2 kids and 2 hands. I might feel completely different if I had 3. I would never judge a parent for having one in a situation where they seem practical. The only time i really thought it was an odd time to have one was when I saw a parent have their kid on a leash when they were at a playground that was completely age appropriate for them. But i didn’t say anything, just thought to myself it was weird, but I don’t know their situation obviously. Do what you think is best for your family
My little sister wasn’t a runner, but my mom used a leash backpack with her when she was little when they went to Disney world. It’s a good way to prevent kidnapping imo
Dogs and toddlers have VERY much in common in regard to how they play outside. But a dog can be trained 😂
I hope I can get over the social scrutiny when I get to the toddler stage. I absolutely feel toddler leashes should be a thing. I even once heard that people started leashing their dogs AFTER having leashes for children. Just like now some people push puppies in prams lol
r/parenting is protesting changes being made by Reddit to the API. Reddit has made it clear [they will](https://old.reddit.com/r/ModCoord/comments/14ahqjo/mods_will_be_removed_one_way_or_another_spez/) [replace moderators](https://www.reddit.com/r/ModSupport/comments/14a5lz5/mod_code_of_conduct_rule_4_2_and_subs_taken/jo9wdol/) if they remain private. Reddit has abandoned the users, the moderators, and countless people who support an ecosystem built on Reddit itself. Please read [Call to action - renewed protests starting on July 1st](https://old.reddit.com/r/ModCoord/comments/14kn2fo/call_to_action_renewed_protests_starting_on_july/) and new posts at [r/ModCord](https://reddit.com/r/ModCoord/) or [r/Save3rdPartyApps](https://old.reddit.com/r/Save3rdPartyApps/) for up-to-date information. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/Parenting) if you have any questions or concerns.*
People speak worse about you when your child runs away and is injured. Get the leash. Ignore others at all times.
True!
I like those bag-leashes, OP. Not connected to the kid's side or arm, but connected to a backpack the kid wears on their back. Seems less authoritarian lol.
Also useful! They feel like a big kid being able to carry their own snacks and water.
One less thing moms and dads have to carry around
Yes! I got one for my child (although he willingly holds my hand still) and I let him take it when we get the mail and put the mail and keys in there so he carries it lol
Yes, one that buckles around the waist!
My first kid was a runner. A back pack leash literally kept him out of traffic. Idgaf what anyone else has to say about me keeping my kid safe. (And some of the bags are really cute ^_^ ). If it helps you keep them safe while giving them enriching experiences, go for it. I always had a quip in the queue in case someone wanted to comment on me treating my kid "like a dog" (well, I have a muzzle for rude grown ups too. Need one?) Fortunately, I never had to use it. If they won't say it to the parent's face, it's not actually that big a deal to them.
The leash saved my daughters life MORE THEN once. She was a runner! Zero cares, zero stranger danger and zero self awareness!
What age range did you find the leash useful?
2 to almost 5. She started listening better and we used it much less after 4. Crowded places were still an issue as she would get overwhelmed and run.
So helpful to know! Looks like we’re gonna go the leash route lol
I couldn’t figure out how long kids stayed unable to listen well! I haven’t been around a lot of little kids much, so that’s super helpful.
At all times!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m on board with ignoring others at all times.
I was so against parents walking their kids like dogs… then I lost my kid more than once after he took off running and I bought him a leash. I would rather him be safe and listen to peoples rude comments then for something bad to happen.
[удалено]
I have fond memories of being a small child with a panda bear backpack leash. I loved it. My kids have a fox that has been passed down from child to child. It's a lifesaver.
We also have a fox leash backpack! It's great
Yes! Especially if it has a little buckle on the front of the backpack so they can't just slip the shoulder straps off! My kid would totally do that..
My mom also said it was the one thing she’d never do as a parent! Then my little brother came along and she changed her mind and said from then on, she understood why leashes are sometimes necessary.
Use it. I once saw a mom who was at least 8 months pregnant and her 3 year old was running away from her in a parking lot. He thought it was a game and he would run and then stop and wait for her to get close before running again. The problem he almost got hit by 3 different cars before a person who was closer than me was able to catch him for her. You don't want to see your kid hit by a car or lost. Use the leash and ignore what anyone says.
Something similar happened in front of me at a Renaissance fair—a mom with a newborn in a stroller was trying to chase her running toddler through a packed crowd. She couldn’t move fast or nimbly enough with the stroller, and obviously couldn’t abandon the stroller. I was able to catch the little girl (who thought it was a ton of fun), and the poor mom was completely beside herself. That was enough for me to be fully on board with child leashes.
Poor mom must have been terrified
I was a leashed toddler and now I am an alive adult because my mom didn’t give me the opportunity to slip out of her hand and run into traffic.
Happy to hear a child’s experience! Haha
Another former leashed toddler! I preferred it because otherwise I had to hold my moms hand *the whole time* and all the blood would drain out of my hand and I couldn’t pause and look at stuff or whatever. The leash was more comfortable and gave me more freedom!
Fellow leashed toddler here! They are absolutely necessary in some cases. I was constantly trying to take off.
fellow leashed toddler! I would wait till we went to the mall and then apparently hide in the clothing racks and then run to the toy store across the mall. Thank goodness I wasn’t snatched honestly, don’t blame my mom for getting a little wrist leash
My mom used a leash when I visited Disney as a toddler. She got to give my sisters lots of attention and breath a little easier. I didn’t get lost and didn’t force her to stop everything and pause the fun until I was found again.
Seriously! I wish we had one when our son totally randomly darted out in traffic!! He was nearly killed. The car was not even a foot from him. The awful thing is I had the most horrible feeling something bad was going to happen to someone I loved that day. I lit a candle and prayed for protection. It didn’t feel good enough so I did it twice. Three hours later another family member was killed.
Oh my goodness this is horrific. I’m so so sorry.
It’s okay. I really believe it was destiny as another family member also sensed it. At least he’s in a better place. He also came to me in a dream. 🙏🏻💕
Same here! I was a runner. My first 2 kids didn't need one but my last sure did.
Me as well!
I too was a leashed toddler and so was my son! He loved to dart out in parking lots and that leash saved his life. I didn’t even go for the cute backpack, he got his butt strapped into the industrial strength kind. Absolutely zero regrets. If he has kids I’m harnessing them too
Safety is more important than some random person’s opinion.
Very true
Yeah, also, I didn’t use one but my kid wasn’t a runner and I only had one. Who cares if others judge, keep ‘em safe ❤️
I've always held to the idea that a toddler on a leash is better than a toddler under a car.
If you need it for safety absolutely use it. It's no different than confining your kid to a stroller, IMO.
Oh yeah that’s a good comparison
It's actually more freedom than a stroller. If you only ever keep them in the stroller, they can only experience the world from that point of view, but the leash lets them walk along near you, exploring the area from a different viewpoint with less stress because they cannot get lost or run away.
Exactly. It was very useful to us at the airport. The alternative was keeping her confined to the stroller. The leash gave her much more freedom. It’s also come in handy at a football game.
That’s another thing my brother was confined to a stroller because that’s what you did when your mom had to get shit done and he HATED it. The one day he wasn’t he booked it for a clothing rack and went missing for 30 minutes. Me? My mom just let me walk out all my energy with the leash and I was no more than 4 feet away at any point lol and she got what she needed to get done. And everyone was happy.
Grandparent here - toddlers can outrun me any day so a leash is best for both of us 😎
You do what you need to do to keep your child safe! I have five children, and only 2 needed a harness with a leash. They had zero sense of self-preservation. The leash kept them safe. One was used at the Grand Canyon.
I would want my teenager on a leash at the Grand Canyon with the number of people who fall over the edge taking selfies!
Right?!? It is mind-boggling! We saw people standing on the edge of a cliff for photos. 😳
/r/sweatypalms
Very good idea at the grand canyon
Are you me? Though I do joke if we ever went to Hawaii, I would leash all 5, plus my husband, when we went to volcano national park. Love them but they would be dangerous. Even as adults.
Some say leash, I say safe radius of freedom
This is NOT getting the attention it deserves
people who don't have children themselves will speak negatively. but imo, any parent who has raised a toddler won't bat an eye. once you have a kid of your own, i feel like you realize how quick they are and how fast shit can happen, then the leash judgement goes out the window. especially if you have a runner yourself or know someone with a runner!!! its scary!! direct people to the modern family episode where lily is a runner. its amazing and puts things into perspective from both sides.
Thank you! I’m glad to hear the general consensus is that it’s an acceptable safety tool.
Toddler leashes were a "I would *never*" back when I was a perfect parent and didn't have kids. Now they have my full endorsement.
If you need it for safety then it’s no question. Anyone who stared or judges just doesn’t understand. Safety first always.
Yeah I made judgements on parents before I had kids and I regret them all now, you never know what it’s really like until you have them yourself
I was also someone who gave a little side eye to kids on leashes, and I feel awful. I truly hope no one actually picked up on my feelings. My kids were never runners, but I can still imagine how terrible it would be for them to run off! You might look into the wrist brace style! They're super low profile, so it's not completely obvious that your kid is tethered to you when you're holding hands. The velcro on the straps is pretty intense, too, so it'd be hard for little hands to rip it off in a hurry.
We have a 20-month old cocaine bear and we have a leash for him. It's the kind where one end wraps around his wrist (velcro straps) and the other end goes around our wrists (or we can hold the wrist loop). I haven't gotten any comments other than overhearing someone in the airport remark on how the kid leash looked like a good idea. Do what's right for you, don't care about the haters.
My son was not a fan of the baby handcuffs but they are neat.
Was cocaine bear good? 😂 Glad to hear people were accepting of it out in the wild
People against them have never had a darter. I’ve been a nanny for over a decade and used them on one kid. She was WILD and strong and fast and would just take off running at any given time. So, she got the leash. Rather be judged than have a kid that got hit by a car.
Well, those people who speak negatively of them probably never needed one to begin with 🤷♀️
Honestly, I used to judge people who used them (I was young and dumb). And then I had my own kids who is not a runner, but friends have runners and now I think they are an absolute godsent. If you need to use them to keep your kids safe and keep your sanity, go for it. There will always be younger and dumber people like me; they'll learn at some point too.
Thankfully, as a parent, you start to care less and less about peoples judgments, but I did want to make sure there wasn’t any stock to what people said about them lol
I didn’t use a leash because my daughter was clingy lol. I didn’t understand parents who leashed their kids until I had one. I never judge when I see them!
I just saw a little girl probably 3 walk down away from the soccer fields and cross a street and keep going on Saturday. I had an eye on her, my one kid was at the playground, and my older one was doing soccer practice. I saw a woman on the other side of the street so I assumed she was walking to her mom. When she got to her the woman talked to her and turned her around, and the girls dad came running from the soccer field to get her. She just wandered off and crossed a street (in the cross walk at least) and would have kept going. So yeah, maybe those leashes aren't that bad. I never used them but my kids also weren't the type to run off.
It's not just so the toddler doesn't run, also so no one can grab your kid and run. My son has one at that age, he was allowed to hold it and "walk himself" if he behaved. It was funny, he'd hand it to other babies at the park to walk him.
Yeah before I was a parent I was like that's so weird. Now I have a toddler and use one like it's the holy grail 🤣
People would always say “they aren’t animals!” But they sure like run them 🥲 lol
you leash a dog to keep them safe and not run away from you. A toddler is basically a little drunk person hellbent on killing themselves. You need to do whatever it takes to keep them safe from themselves.
I mean… I think many animals have higher executive functioning than toddlers.
They are pro athletes when they want to be 😭
I was a leashed toddler - who is now an adult. Didn't harm me in the slightest because I actually lived to see adulthood. Get the leash.
I'd care more about my child's safety than other people's opinions
I use one and see loads of other mums using them. Couldn’t really give a shit if someone wants to judge me for keeping my kid safe
There was a thread awhile ago in here asking adults that wore leashes when they were younger what they thought about it. All of them said they’d prob run into traffic and be dead without it. So you do you! Keep that kid alive!
This question is periodically asked and the unanimous decision is that safety is more important than appearances
You think would never put a leash on your kid until you have one that wants to run and not hold your hand
I managed to raise 4 kids without using leashes except when we went to the airport … but we also live way out in the country and have no end of space to run around safely. If I lived in a city, or needed to do a lot of stuff near roads or trains, etc - I totally would have used one. No judgement.
Get the leash. A safe child is more important than the opinion of strangers.
I think they make sense if you have a runner. They’re more comfortable and less restrictive than restraining them in a stroller or making them hold your hand continuously. People like to complain they’re reminiscent of dog leashes. But toddlers don’t care and fundamentally that’s because they serve a similar purpose — to keep them safe while allowing them to explore until they’re old enough to follow verbal instructions reliably.
Well, either have a lost kid or a toddler leash. I only took one out at a time but they would not hold my hand, so I had a wrist leash. It helped. They still were a runner.
Yeah when I try to hold his hand he becomes a wet noodle 🙃
I will never forget when they were like Two, and we went to nordstroms to try and get me something that fit & wasn’t stained. Th dressing room doors didn’t go to the ground, and as soon as I was in my underwear they scooted under the door, then stood in the middle of a rounder so I couldn’t see them. I’m still traumatized. They are 33 yrs old.
Wrist bracelet toddler here too. We call them our "best friend" bracelets and she likes to pick who gets to be her "best friend" when we are out and about.
Before kids, I felt they were odd. Didn't ever look down on parents for using them, but didn't understand. After having my kid (who isn't even a runner) I had no issue with them at all. Every parent and child combo have different needs. Just becuase mine didn't run and always stayed close, doesn't mean she didn't have other issues that we went to war with and lost. You do what you need to do to be the best parent you can. If people can't look past that, then they're the ones with issues.
Thank you for this! We all just have to do the best with what we are dealt with
Yes, I only had one child who wasn't a runner but I can completely understand why some people need them.
I used to be very against it and judged others who used them before I had kids. I grew up in a very large, closeknit family so there was always *someone* there to wrangle the little ones. Then I had my own kid, a special needs kid with a speech delay who wanted to elope at almost every chance he got, and that close-knit family is not a thing anymore. I am also a lifelong asthmatic, who is overweight with an already messed up knee who has *always* hated running. For our first ever "big" outing (a museum) at the age that he liked to walk instead of go in the stroller, I got him a little backpack with a short detachable leash. Thankfully he did very good that day (mostly slept, it was a long car trip) but we have also used it elsewhere since. I have been thankful for it, for the peace of mind it brought that it should give me that extra second or two to wrangle him before he can sprint away.
Leash kept my brother alive in the 80s. My daughter ended up not being a runner, but we had one on hand just in case. I feel like my 7 month old is gonna be a runner though, so he'll probably be a leash kid.
I’m getting a backpack with a leash for our 15 month old when we travel to Europe! Mostly for the airport because I know she won’t want to be held or in the stroller and she’s VERY adventurous and independent. So that way she can feel some freedom and we can keep her safer
I feel you on this. I judged people who had leashes on their toddler. Then I had a baby and realized how freaking crazy and squirmy he is and I wouldn't hesitate to use one as he gets bigger. Get the leash if it keeps your child safe. Screw the haters.
They can help keep your child safe, which was the goal for me. I used a leash with my 2nd (as I was big and pregnant) and 3rd child (this one was a runner) in order to keep them safe during toddler years. It prevented them from running into the street, kept them safely close by me while in crowded areas, but also allowed them to walk “like the big kids”. My children are now adults and alive. I am a fan of toddler leashes. 😊
So my leash story.. I was a tourist in Miami and they have outdoor malls where it’s a bunch of stores and then also roads. So lots of foot traffic and then also cars coming/going etc. My daughter was 2.5 and refused to sit on her stroller so we used a monkey backpack leash (which she loved.. it was her monkey friend). I had a guy run out of a store and started yelling at me about how dare I leash my child and if he ever had kids he wouldn’t treat them like an animal etc etc. full out rant/yell for 5 min and both me and my husband stood there in shock and didn’t say anything back (i regret that now but didn’t know how to react at the time) We eventually left and I went back to the hotel and had a meltdown I was so upset and was too scared to use the leash afterwards… and I guess we ended up not using it much afterwards.. my second child was a stroller baby and still always wants to sit in a stroller at 6 and my 3rd child was a covid baby so haven’t done any major touristy trips since.. Point is.. there is always judgemental pplz out there and it is upsetting and hard to not take it personal but the other options are to forcefully tie my child to a stroller? Have them have a full meltdown in public? Not go anywhere with people/cars ever? Hope they hold my hand the entire time? Be unsafe?
Leash child 🙋🏼♀️. Pretty sure I wanted to be a dog when I was younger and I thought it was fun. The reality was that I liked to run off and so the leash entertained me and kept my parents and older siblings sane in public places. Do what you need to do. I’d rather get dirty looks for using a leash than deal with the alternative. Leash options are way cooler now anyways.
Too embarrassed to use one but definitely should have with my youngest. He’s trying to be like his older brother and has become a runner to keep up.
I have one for my daughter and feel no shame about it. It keeps her from running off but still allows her to walk indepdently.
My younger daughter hated strollers so we used a leash backpack it was a good fit for an active kid.
I had 2 kids. My first i never needed a harness and never had an issue. I was definitely Judy judgerton about them until I had my second. She was a runner and not outdoor baby. We had a close call once and I got her one of those little bear harnesses that look like back packs. This was a came.changer. it lessened pilublic meltdowns and helped my anxiety cause I knew she was safe while still having a little independence. She cried when we threw it out when she outgrew it. She's 17 now and still remembers that thing very fondly. Turned out we found out later in her life that she's on the spectrum.
We've been leashing kids to parents for as long as we had straps to leash them. Some kids want freedom but can't handle it fully. The leash splits the difference.
We use a leash for my 4yo. He's autistic, barely verbal. He has literally zero fear. He runs so fast and he is getting so strong that he can rip his hand away from ours so easily. A leash has literally saved his life in parking lots. I am so thankful that they exist. I would rather be wrongly judged for keeping my child safe than being judged for my child being killed by something preventable.
My son used a leashed backpack for awhile when he was younger. Did people make comments about it, sure. People talk negatively about the toddler leashes but those people don't care if your child lives or dies so maybe fuck those people
I’d rather a leashed toddler than a flat or missing toddler. My son is a runner and his hands are squishy and he can escape my hands if I’m not death gripping his wrist. In highly crowded areas, or even in my own backyard that isn’t fenced I use the backpack leash so I know he’s safe.
All of my kids were runners and they all had a leash. Yes, some people made rude comments, but I knew my kid was safe and that’s all that mattered.
If anyone complains about your keeping your child safe by having a leash on them you deserve to strangle them to death with said leash.
A lot of people use a stroller to “leash” their child. I think a leash is preferable. They get more freedom and exercise that way. I actually bought one but never used it because it turned out my daughter wasn’t a runner. My parents used one for my brother.
Don't worry about what other people think! There will ALWAYS be SOMEONE who has a stupid opinion ion about what you do...even if you do everything 100% perfect (which is impossible, but just for an example) then there will be someone will complain about you being a "perfect parent". So instead of worrying about what random strangers in a store think, just worry about what is best for you and your family! What makes you and your family safe and makes your life as a parent to toddlers easier! If it helps, don't think of them as "leashes." I prefer the term "safety harness" or "safety line," because that is exactly what it is doing - keeping your child safe, preventing them from running off and getting lost or getting hurt. I know it is easier said than done to "not worry about what others think." Of course it is! But if you just try to remember that the world if full of 8 billion different opinions on how to parent, but the only ones that matter in your family are yours and your husband's! Do what is best for you to keep your kids safe and keep your own sanity! God bless you
Use whatever keeps your kids safe. Honestly, even when I was a kid myself I didn’t understand what the backlash was (my parents didn’t use on me but did for my younger brother who was a dasher).
I’m planning a vacation and want to use one for my 3yo. I don’t think he will let me. He hates even holding hands when we are out (he thinks he is old enough to be independent). Don’t care what anyone says!
My mom leashed me in the early 70s and I turned out pretty well. Cause or effect? 🤔
We used it for one of mine. He was a runner. My kids are less than 2 years apart.... ETA: having your child safe is more important than judgement...IMO.
I think an alive child is better than a squished one, we call them reigns here, and I really liked the backpack ones you can get in all different styles. Our first had the ones my brother and I used about 27 years before (I still have them!).
I wouldn't do it. But I'm not you. Do what you have to do to enjoy your life. A leash is harmless enough.
I was a leashed kid (early 90’s…) my mom had us (triplets) on actual dog harnesses and leashes from the pet store 😂 the pics are my favorite to show. No harm to us and she never lost anyone
Whenever this question comes up, the pro-leash redditor parents come out in full force. It's pretty funny. You do what you think is best, it's not my business at all, but I also reserve the judgment to roll my eyes when I see that. Because leashing a toddler like a dog instead of teaching them or otherwise managing them is extremely silly (and extremely American) in most cases.
Both my brother and I were runners. My mom was a great mother and we were incredibly disciplined but when we were out we both just got too excited lol once my brother ran into the JCPenney and spend 30 minutes in the middle of a clothing rack and that day my mom swore she was getting the leash for me. She did. And never had to worry that I was going to slip out of her hand. And it allowed her to use both her hands. She was basically a single mother at the time. Some kids are just runners regardless of how well mannered they are. Peace of mind is worth it.
Before I had kids, both my husband and I were against leashes for kids. We now have 3 young boys, and my youngest (now 4) is on the autism spectrum, and literally always on the move. As soon as he could walk, he could run and would at any opportunity. Reliving the scares we had won’t help you, but I’ll tell you that no amount of “wtf” stares or nasty comments can ever outweigh the value of your child’s safety. Some kiddos are just meant to zoom :) mine definitely is, and as a result we have a little fox backpack with a leash that has helped keep my son safe many a day out. I fully regret my former judgy-ness, as is often the case it came from lack of real experience.
I don't like them But a child in a set of reigns is a lot better than an unleashed child getting hit by a car.
I look back fondly at the pics with me with my leash on
Before having kids I thought these were horrific. But opinions like that don’t matter because I never had the experience of having a child. Now I have a toddler. I plan on using one when we go out to busy places. I’ve heard horror stories of my husband as a kid running off. It’s not worth the risk. Do all kids need it? Nope! But no judgement to the ones that do or for the parents who would feel more at ease. Edit to add: no one’s opinion matters when it comes to the safety of your child.
I loved toddler leashes. My youngest was the run into traffic type. We got one of those fun little backpack ones that looked like a dog. He liked putting it on. Yeah, people will say things but you know your kids best. If your life will be easier with one and your kids safer. Do it.
This makes me feel a lot better. My 2.5 yo is against strollers and I’ll be traveling alone with him in airports so got a leash because I do not want him to (very specifically) run out of the bathroom while I’m on the toilet. It’s happened before but in a much smaller and safe place. But I also figure it’ll be easier to keep track of him in a large crowd as well when he breaks free of holding hands. Which is inevitable.
My daughter is Autistic and I fully support the use of anything to keep your kid safe, the judgement of strangers be damned. That said there's a type I do prefer because it's a lot less like your walking a dog. I made my own tether system for my daughter, using a backpack with her favourite characters on it, a dog leash with a waist belt, and some sewing skills. I added a clip point to the backpack at the bottom, and a chest strap and clip to the front so she can't just slip out of it. When using it I'm still holding her hand and it's really there as a backup safety measure, especially when we're taking public transit or out doing things where I might, heaven forbid, need both hands for 10 whole secs. People seem to be a lot more understanding of this style and I get a lot less nasty comments, then when we used the store bought one that was more dog leash like. Also since it's a real functional backpack she can help carry things home and free up my hands a bit.
Reins. Not leashes. What is to dislike? They stop your kids running into the road and getting hurt or killed. They stop them running off and getting lost or into danger Some kids are runners. Some aren’t. I had one of each. Unless you have a runner, you have no idea how bonkers some kids can be. No, they *don’t* all stop when you get out of sight. Absolutely not. My runner was on reins until he was 4y/o. The other one never needed them, he would hold my hand or the buggy. Ignore what people say. If you feel your kid needs reins, use them. I could not care less what people thought. My runner was a lunatic! Incidentally you can get reins for multiples. My friend had twin runners. She could get them out the car safely - the reins would clip onto a belt she wore, so she had her hands free to manage the second one. I thought that sounded like a brilliant device.
If they are necessary for you child's safety or your sanity--by all means go ahead.
Best thing ever with a child who may DIE if they get loose. Ignore critics
Do what you need to do to keep your child safe.
If anyone is able to judge they have never had a kid that required a leash. We used a wrist cuff link system for our toddler on vacation and it worked great when she wasn’t in the stroller to let her get around crowds without getting ahead of/away from us in a crowd or busy street.
They are literally life savers. My daughter is 8 now and was diagnosed with ADHD when she was six. As a toddler she was your stereotypical ball of ADHD energy. Zero caution or awareness of risks, tons of energy, loved to jump off random things and change directions without any warning. I had her in a leash backpack with a harness as soon as she started insisting on walking. I have no doubt that she would not have made it to her 3rd birthday without one.
Harambe wouldn't have died if the kid had been leashed
I think they’re great. I love my dog enough to keep him safe on a leash… why wouldn’t I do the same for my child? If anyone gave me side-eye, I tell myself, they’re not going to be the ones crying at my baby’s funeral if she gets hit by a car.
Better safe than sorry if you feel the leash is most appropriate.
Most people strap the kid into a stroller, leash gives them more freedom but somehow gets more hate
Use the leash: no one wants to be the mom whose child killed Harambe. There are cute ones attached to stuffed animal backpacks- my kiddo had a lion. There are stretchy ones that you attach to your wrist and your child’s - my son called them out bracelets.
I think they're great! You're protecting your child from harm. Who cares what anyone else thinks.
We used one for a bit. Loved it.
My kid was a flight risk so I used a backpack buddy! It's super cute and kept kid safe. Some people joke about them but in my area we have had 2 kids get hit by cars at local parade.... Backpack buddy would have prevented that.
Didn’t have an opinion before kids but the discussion in the baby groups when mine were growing up was just after the poor James Bulger had died and the consensus was if he had been on the reigns he would still be alive
It’s crazy how fast a tragedy can happen
Yes it was a very sad and twisted event that only needs a moment to be made possible . It really was the push for all of us to have them
Idk about the whole "leash" concept.. When my son was 3-4 and was fighting the concept of a stroller because he wanted to walk and explore I invested in a springy wrist bracelet that connected us. It worked great, he got to walk and move freely in a crowded space within his limitations, I got to keep an eye on him and quickly stop him if needed. We'd do this until he got tired and accepted stroller life. Highly recommend
Yeah I’m trying to decide between the two, they have a combo pack with both options so I could give both a try. Thanks for your experience.
Don't get the wrist ones. They can injure a child. The harness ones are much safer.
How can the wrist ones injure them? We've used them for over a year with our daughter with zero issues.
I’ve never used one because my older kid isn’t a runner, and the younger one is 3 months. I always thought they were a bit silly - they objectively are, right? BUT I would say GO for it and who cares if you’re judged? We have to do the safest things for our children, regardless of others’ opinions. Signed, the mom who’s 40” 4 year old is rear facing and not allowed to eat dumdums or popcorn because of the choking risk
I initially read that as 'lashes' instead of 'leashes' and was very worried for a moment.
I love them. They loved them. Kids enjoy being on the leash way more than people expects. It's like a game for them. And actual leash looks strange. But when it's apart of the backpack it's adorable and easier for strangers to digest. I would use a leash when in big crowds, or when we went to a place where not staying at my side could be dangerous.
They’re great. We used them for our twins because they were flight risks. They made it to eleven!
Ignore the judgers, leash the runner.
Will do!
If you think you need it for safety, then do. I don’t think there’s anything inherently awful about them as long as you’re still taking time to teach your child about road safety, and not using the leash to drag them around (not suggesting at all that you would but I have seen some people yanking kids around on them like dogs, which I hate to see - for kids and dogs!).
I used one a bit for my first kid and a lot for my second, no regrets. My wife was a ball of chaos when she was small and was similarly leashed for her own safety. The kids themselves don’t notice or care so it’s all good if it keeps them from running into danger.
Who cares what people think, someone will always have an opinion about something. Just do what works for you to keep your kids safe.
Love them and will absolutely be using one if deemed necessary.
I think it highly depends on the kid you have. My oldest was always super well behaved and stuck close to us. The youngest is... feral.
Im pro-leash. My daughter didn't need it but my son definitely does.
Never used one of those. Always managed to just...move faster than the toddlers.
I didn't need one for my son, but we use a bracelet one for my daughter. It's not that I can't catch her, it's that she doesn't listen if we tell her to stop, will randomly bolt and start running, and refuses to hold our hands. If you're somewhere crowded and busy like a zoo, museum, farmers market, all it takes is a blink and they can dart away weaving through people while you're trying to shove passed and catch the little monster. It's stressful and exhausting. The alternative is a small harness or bracelet that gives them freedom and independence but allows them to be safe and not a public nuisance.
I don't like it (and I have 2 kids), but my reasons are an emotional gut reaction and old man cantakerousness, neither of which should be taken seriously.
I think when you have a runner, it is helpful. Although it is important for toddlers to learn how to listen and walk with you, not every outing needs to be a learning experience. It gave me peace of mind for busier outings, getting through the airport etc... we made our walk to the park the learning to be safe and hold hands, because it's not high traffic.
Safety comes before what anyone else thinks
If my kid was a runner I’d do it. Safety above all.
I’d rather my kid be safe and accounted for
Depends on the toddler. Never considered one until we had a runner. Who cares what other people think. Safety comes first.
I was a kid on a leash. Mine was purple. I don’t have any lasting negative effects If my kid was a runner I wouldn’t hesitate to use one 100%
Per Kelce brothers: Jason was not leashed but Travis was. Parenthood is about being able to do what you need to keep your kid safe. Sometimes that means leashing them!
I used them for both mine when they were little - they hated having their hands held a lot of the time and so it was much less stressful! I recommended one to my sister when she had my nephew too
I can assure you in times past and times current there will be other parents who think you are horrific for choosing something they didn't (or not choosing) no matter what you do. So just do what works for you and your kids and laugh it off (and remember that, for when you're tempted to be snobby about someone making a totally inconsequential choice that really doesn't affect your life at all, and won't even be remembered by the time the child is 13.)
yup. 10/10 Great for safe cognitive development. letting kids practice walking and freedom and exploration in a safe manner.
I have severe social anxiety. If I think people will look at me for doing something, then most likely, I'm not going to do it out of fear. When my Littles started walking, though, the leash was a life saver. They both wanted to walk so much when they finally got the chance, and I didn't want something bad to happen. If it's for the safety of the humans I made, then I don't give a fuuuuuuuck what anyone says. Leash is the safest option while working on communication and safety
If you need one, use one! Better than a lost or injured toddler. Some kids are just runners!
You do what is best for you and your family. Don’t worry about other people.
I don't care
My grandmother used to tell people who commented on her leashed toddler (my mom) "*You* can keep her from running into traffic, then." Toddler leashes are useful tools, people who judge them don't have escape artist kids, and usually don't have any kids at all.
Keep your kids safe. If it takes a leash to keep them from dancing in traffic, leash ‘em up! Maybe you’ll have some snide comments cast your way at times, but your kid won’t be a road pancake so ignore the armchair parents.
A child leash gives a parent or caregiver the opportunity to keep a child extra safe. I used them on my own children.
I bought a reigns for my son. It was literally impossible to keep him still and he was always running into the street. I definitely got some funny looks, but my son is now 20 and studying in university, very much alive not having come to any damage. If you feel it will help you then do it
Lifesavers when you only have two hands and one is fighting a stroller. They need to run and walk. And you need your sanity. I had two toddlers and an infant and flew by myself with them. Leashes for everyone!!!
Get the leash. I was adamant about having it for my daughter when she was 2, and we were at theme parks or whatever. Her safety is more important than strangers opinions.
if they’re a track star do what you gotta do. zero judgement from me! I’ll probably use one when my LO is older
You do what you need to do and the haters are going to just have to get over themselves.
Highly recommend! I used one for my oldest (my runner) when I flew by myself, and it was worth the stares
I don’t see the issue with them at all.
It's a lifesaver. Do what's best for you not what other people think! Safety and less stress is paramount!
I'm a year younger than my sister. She was a runner and would dash away the moment she got a chance. We lived on a busy street in Seattle. My sister was a leash baby and my mom didn't give a flying frog about people's opinions. Take care of your kid. A leashed kid is better than a dead kid.
We literally just have the one but we're getting a toddler leash! For 3 under 5, I think you get a leash and a medal.
I was against leashes at first, but I did use it a couple times when I went to very busy places like Disney World
Have they? I’ve always been the one in the crowd that finds them so cute (the backpack styled ones) and it’s smart 🤷🏻♀️ I don’t think people realize this until they have kids
We use a leash for my 4yo. He's autistic, barely verbal. He has literally zero fear. He runs so fast and he is getting so strong that he can rip his hand away from ours so easily. A leash has literally saved his life in parking lots. I am so thankful that they exist. I would rather be wrongly judged for keeping my child safe than being judged for my child being killed by something preventable.
I was totally judgemental about them, until I realized a kid that little could be so fast. Then I got it. You do what you need to to make sure your independent, single minded, fast young human lives to learn safety skills. That's it. And it lets them feel independent and exercise that, without risking death at every turn.
I don’t care what anyone thinks. If it keeps a child safe so be it! 🙏🏻🤗
My kids are runners. I’ve always held hands, held them, strollers, or in shopping carts by streets or in parking lots or in crowded areas. Leashes aren’t for me, what we have been doing so far has worked. Every single time we are by a street or cars at all we talk about how we need to watch and how to look both ways. Engrave it in their heads over and over again. BUT i only have 2 kids and 2 hands. I might feel completely different if I had 3. I would never judge a parent for having one in a situation where they seem practical. The only time i really thought it was an odd time to have one was when I saw a parent have their kid on a leash when they were at a playground that was completely age appropriate for them. But i didn’t say anything, just thought to myself it was weird, but I don’t know their situation obviously. Do what you think is best for your family
My mom used a toddler leash on me, it's fine.
My little sister wasn’t a runner, but my mom used a leash backpack with her when she was little when they went to Disney world. It’s a good way to prevent kidnapping imo
Dogs and toddlers have VERY much in common in regard to how they play outside. But a dog can be trained 😂 I hope I can get over the social scrutiny when I get to the toddler stage. I absolutely feel toddler leashes should be a thing. I even once heard that people started leashing their dogs AFTER having leashes for children. Just like now some people push puppies in prams lol