leash backpacks for ur kids

Lori - posted on 12/30/2009

People it isn't a leash- it is a safety harness big difference. My daughter has a monkey for my grandson and he loves it- he puts it on in the house to play. As for the kids acting like a dog- mine does it in the house with our 2 dogs that we have that is normal child behavior. I would much rather have the back pack on him than the wrist bands that they had 20 years ago- these keep the lil ones alot safer. My grandson likes to explore- hates being in a stroller or a hard buggy- for that matter I would hate having to sit all the time my self.



Get off your soap boxes and look at the safety side of the matter- all you people say that your child is perfect you are the same people that when your child does something wrong to another kid that tell everyone little johnnie wouldn't do that. When my kids had someone come over and say they did something wrong the first thing I asked is why. I knew better.



Kids will be kids- like to explore and investigate new things- this just keeps them safe in doing it. And if you don't like it that is your opinion- but don't try to force your opinion on other people.

Ivy - posted on 12/30/2009

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness.

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

A few things here: Krista's point about being good until she ran in front of a car was to demonstrate that even kids who mind all the time do crazy stuff without thought of consequence. Not sure what you understood from that point, but she meant that even a good kid cannot be completely trusted, so a safety device is not just for these "bad kids" everyone keeps mentioning.

As far as expecting them to fail: I ABSOLUTELY expect my 18-month-old to "fail" at knowing whether it is safe to let go of my hand and run after a birdie or a dropped toy. He completely lacks impulse control and the ability to comprehend consequences. Cars go fast--he understands. Cars crush people and they die or end up in wheelchairs--he cannot quite comprehend. He would likely be more worried about his toy getting crushed by a car than himself. This is not failing; this is the appropriate developmental stage for a toddler.

Teaching: If people want to use it like a leash and tug on their kids all the time rather than teaching them to stay closer or how to behave in public--then shame on them. Shame on any of you that assume those of us who use these are just dragging (or being dragged by) our kids through the mall by these things instead of teaching our kids. Teaching him boundaries and rules is exactly what this device helped me do, without having to constantly "get after him" verbally and physically--making both of us miserable. If he started to pull away (lose the slack), I would tell him to stay closer or be safe--otherwise, I would have to limit his exploring or confine him in a cart or stroller where he would have no fun or learning at all. I just don't have to be in state of constant worry that when I stop to look at something, I will look down and he'll be nowhere in sight.

Lastly: If someone is using this thing because they have a "bad" kid, then that is a different issue altogether. This device should not be used as punishment. If someone uses it that way, then I think that is horrible. My kid never saw it as punishment. He was someties given the choice between the backpack or the stroller and he ALWAYS chose the backpack. He sometimes asked for it when I wasn't planning to use it. Sometimes I would let him hold the tail instead of me. Sometimes he would give it back to me. He never saw it as puinishment and definitely prefered it over what some folks here are saying we should all use instead.

Natasha - posted on 12/30/2009

i think nit is like walking a dog personally but if you feel comfortable go ahead!!

Natasha - posted on 12/30/2009

i think nit is like walking a dog personally but if you feel comfortable go ahead!!

Tiffany - posted on 12/30/2009

You are NOT putting a collar around your child and attaching it to a leash. THAT is like what you'd do with a dog. I have an almost two year old and I have the backpack. I do not use it very much but on the rare occasion of a disneyland trip or a mall trip where he's being fussy and does not want to sit in his stroller, I put his little backpack on. He's very good at wriggling out of my hand and most of the time I'm able to hold on to him, but what if something were to happen in a crowded place and he got out of my grasp and got lost or trampled? It's just like holding your childs hand. Its actually kind of like you're giving him more freedom. He has a little more space to walk away from you but at the same time he's not going too far. Plus...my son really loves his backpack. Its his "buddy" that he gets to take around with him. I have one, I use one, I DO NOT TREAT MY CHILD LIKE A DOG, and I would recommend one.

Tracy - posted on 12/30/2009

I had something similar with my first but it seemed to cause more trouble than it was worth. In stores, it just meant she got wrapped in the clothing racks. She did better in the cart, holding my hand or just being firm that she was to stay near me. I didn't use anything with the next 2 kids who are only 16 months apart in age.

Ivy - posted on 12/29/2009

Quoting Cassie:

I think it is so hypocritical and confusing of some to say that they are so against child harnesses but say they put their children in a stroller or a cart. Why is that any different?

This was my reaction to that line of thinking as well. A harness is degrading and dog-like, and a stroller is somehow not degrading for a child who is perfectly capable of walking?  The child is not handicapped, so why force them to be strapped down and wheeled around like his legs don't work? This is far more debasing to a kid who is so happy/proud to be able to walk like a "big boy" instead of being carried or pushed "like a baby." My 2 year old refused to get in the stroller as soon as he could walk because he said he was "not a baby." Forcing him into one definitely hurt his pride and ruined out plans for the outing. He thought the harness was cool.

I think a key difference is what people see dog leashes as to begin with. I have two small dogs. Leashes to me are to keep them safe--so that they cannot get away from me so far that something bad will happen to them. I think there are others posting here who think of them as something you use to control or overpower the dog or protect others from the your dog.

Calling a child safety harness a "dog leash" is like calling a pak-n-play/play pen a "dog kennel" or a pacifier a "muzzle."

Some children might behave just fine and never ever step away from their parents' sight. Some run after everything that looks fun or after a lost/dropped toy. My son is mostly the first type--but since he is not capable of true rational thought yet and has no real sense of consequences (if I run in the road, a fast car will hit me and kill me--permanently), I choose to not take my chances.

I am usually on the soap box about people underestimating what kids are capable of understanding (someone mentioned that), but in this case you are seriously OVERestimating that a toddler understands why he should not dart out in a parking lot or away from you in a crowd. They don't know what can harm them or that the harm might be permanent. It is the parents' job to think of that for them--so do whatever you need to do to keep your kids safe and stop worrying about what others think of it. If you don't stick to your instincts and something terrible (and preventable) happens, will you be able to bear that knowledge? I would hate myself.

Ivy - posted on 12/29/2009

Quoting Cassie:

I think it is so hypocritical and confusing of some to say that they are so against child harnesses but say they put their children in a stroller or a cart. Why is that any different?

This was my reaction to that line of thinking as well. A harness is degrading and dog-like, and a stroller is somehow not degrading for a child who is perfectly capable of walking?  The child is not handicapped, so why force them to be strapped down and wheeled around like his legs don't work? This is far more debasing to a kid who is so happy/proud to be able to walk like a "big boy" instead of being carried or pushed "like a baby." My 2 year old refused to get in the stroller as soon as he could walk because he said he was "not a baby." Forcing him into one definitely hurt his pride and ruined out plans for the outing. He thought the harness was cool.

I think a key difference is what people see dog leashes as to begin with. I have two small dogs. Leashes to me are to keep them safe--so that they cannot get away from me so far that something bad will happen to them. I think there are others posting here who think of them as something you use to control or overpower the dog or protect others from the your dog.

Calling a child safety harness a "dog leash" is like calling a pak-n-play/play pen a "dog kennel" or a pacifier a "muzzle."

Some children might behave just fine and never ever step away from their parents' sight. Some run after everything that looks fun or after a lost/dropped toy. My son is mostly the first type--but since he is not capable of true rational thought yet and has no real sense of consequences (if I run in the road, a fast car will hit me and kill me--permanently), I choose to not take my chances.

I am usually on the soap box about people underestimating what kids are capable of understanding (someone mentioned that), but in this case you are seriously OVERestimating that a toddler understands why he should not dart out in a parking lot or away from you in a crowd. They don't know what can harm them or that the harm might be permanent. It is the parents' job to think of that for them--so do whatever you need to do to keep your kids safe and stop worrying about what others think of it. If you don't stick to your instincts and something terrible (and preventable) happens, will you be able to bear that knowledge? I would hate myself.

Josephine - posted on 12/29/2009

Dog leash not a chid leash

Ivy - posted on 12/29/2009

Quoting Krista:

I'm all for them. I'd much rather my child look a little silly than be run over in the road.

Besides, most times, those backpacks are used on toddlers. We're talking about people who still crap their pants, will happily grab at their genitals in public places, and can usually be found with a finger buried up one nostril. I really think we're overestimating their sense of dignity, here.

As well, I've heard a lot of people say that holding hands works just as well. First of all, their little hand can be yanked out of yours pretty darned quickly. And second of all -- I propose an experiment. The next time you go for a walk, I want you to spend the entire walk with your right arm held straight up in the air over your head. Go for a good half-hour this way. Arm tired? Sore? All the blood rushing from your hand? Think about it: would a kid be happier doing THAT, or would they be happier with both arms free, and with a 4-foot radius of mobility, so that they can veer to look at a flower, or an interesting bug, or all of the other million things that interest toddlers?

You are exactly right! My son is on the shorter side and he could not even hold hands and walk with anyone other than me without the adult stooping down. He would always get tired of holding hands and start rebelling--then have to be carried--kicking and screaming "down!" Once I got the teddy bear version of this backpack thing, he was so happy. He actually felt more free than being stuck 6 inches from me with is hand a foot over his head. We are always careful to keep slack in the tail so he is not pulling on it (making it more like a leash.) I just remind him to stay closer when the slack starts to disappear. Anyone who thinks that holding your arm straight up in the air for more than 10 minutes is somehow more dignified or comfortable than getting to have a teddybear or puppy or "big-kid backpack" (they come in that variety too) on your back with your "must-haves" in it with both hands free to grab or hold whatever you want needs to re-assess the situation logically. Most kids don't think of it as a leash. Most 2-year-olds don't think about much for very long. I was briefly lost in a shopping mall as a kid and so was my husband. We were both "hiding" in the clothes racks because we thought it was fun/funny. My husband went so fa as to fall asleep whil hiding. We know our kids could do that same thing and they might not be so lucky that responsible people will find them. I would rather hold a soft teddy tail, let them play in the clothes racks and know they will be going home with me. When people see how proud my son walks with his teddy on his back, they know he is not being demoted to canine status. He could not be happier--and neither could we. One older lady stopped me to comment one day when I was out alone with my boy and I thought "oh great, here we go!" but she said "good for you. I wish I had one of those for my kids 50 years ago."

Thea - posted on 12/29/2009

I have the same one and LOVE it. My 2 year old little boy runs everywere. I also have a 7 month old. I use it in the mall and when we go on the bus or places that are crowded. I don't care that i get dirty looks. Hands can come apart so easy when people are crowding around. I will not take that chance. At the same time it is not a babysitter. I do not us it as such. It keeped my son from jumping in to the water fall at the mall.

When My son goes out with my brother inlaw who has no kids I give it to him. He said that all parents should have one and that he was ready to go buy some for some of those parents he saw at the mall that were not watching their kids well.

It is not a Leash it is a safty thing. My mom had them and my mother in-law as well. Some of the old ways are still good I think!

Crystal - posted on 12/29/2009

I think they are wonderful that way the child has a chance to have some freedom but you still have some control. Holding Hands will only last for so long as they want to be able to explore.

Nicole - posted on 12/28/2009

i actually want one! i am a mother of 3 (ages 3,2, and 1month) and when i have the baby and the diaper bag i need that extra hand to help so i totally agree with them. I believe that they protect a child more than any damage people may think they do to them.

Vicki - posted on 12/28/2009

My niece has a set of twins and used the backpacks. I'm all for being safe than sorry.

Holly - posted on 12/28/2009

My son started running on his first birthday and hasn't stopped yet. He does not sit in strollers or carts and will not walk around holding my hand for an hour. The safety harness is the only way I can make sure he is safe and I can pay a cashier at the same time and my job is to keep him safe so who cares what people think. As for it treating the little ones like animals that is just naive. He sleeps in a crib with bars, he is strapped down in his car seat, and so on. This is what we do to keep them safe. And for those who mentioned them acting like dogs, they are children. My son also acts like a frog and a cow and a monkey because he is playing and using his imagination. Kids do that.

Crystal - posted on 12/28/2009

I thnnk they are GREAT especially if you have really young ones. I have two boys 13mths apart and I tell you it helped alot. Most people that saw it was wowed and said they wished they had one when their kids were that age. Then you have some that thinks it abuse to those people I say you must not have kids or we all can't have perfectly obedient kids like yours. If you like use and if your man doesn't like let him control the kid for a while.

Yesmine - posted on 12/28/2009

i didnt like them untill i had a son.... i wouldnt let him run wild with it but there r ppl out there that will snatch kids up and some kids run wild out in public and one second ur kids could b gone so depending on where u r i think its a good idea but holding hands with the leash part in ur hand is good

Jaime - posted on 12/28/2009

Quoting Renae:

I thought I already posted but it must have been the same question, different community!

I would like to tell everyone who has an opinion on this a TRUE STORY.

When I was 18 I was walking through the mall and saw a young man walking briskly and carrying a young girl. As he passed I caught the little girls eye and although she was not struggling, she looked terrified, she looked frozen with fear. I watched for a few seconds and my stomach started churning, something was wrong. I chased after him and starting yelling at him to stop. He started running, so I ran after him (I was very fit back then). I caught him and grabbed his shoulder, he spun around. At this point I realised I had no plan of what I was going to do when I caught him, so I just said "give me the girl". The man said, "I'm her father". I just knew he was lying. I put my arms out and the little girl lunged towards me, I managed to rip her away from him. The man just turned and ran away. I was yelling for someone to stop him, all these people were just staring and noone did anything. I didn't want to leave the girl to chase him.

Later when the police were interviewing me I found out that the girls mother had been in a womens dress shop, there was noone else in the shop except 2 shop assistants, one behind the counter serving her mum and one hanging clothes. The little girl was standing right next to her mother at the counter. The police decided that the man must have grabbed the girl while the mother was searching through her purse looking for her credit card.

The man was never caught. The little girl was 3 years old. Lets not think about what the man planned on doing with her. If the little girl had a leash on, he never could have grabbed her.

Years later I was the manager of a shopping centre. We collected an average of 15 lost children under the age of 4 every week and this was only a very small shopping centre. The parents of the lost kids weren't bad parents, they just looked away for a second.

Think what you want about leashes. But they keep kids safe from monsters who prey on children.

Your story gave me chills...

My aunts both worked with Child Find here in Ontario for over 20 years and it's just incredible the number of missing children that happen as a result of being snatched from a shopping mall while the parent just glances at a sweater or reaches for their purse.  I took my cousin's little girl to the mall a few months back and she had her safety harness on...it left her free to roam a couple feet ahead or beside me so she could look around and explore a bit, as she loves to walk and really doesn't like being confined to her stroller.  I actually didn't even think about what other patrons would think about the harness and just went about my shopping...it made for a great day out.  Needless to say, I will be buying one for my son who will be walking in just a few short months.

Renae - posted on 12/28/2009

I thought I already posted but it must have been the same question, different community!



I would like to tell everyone who has an opinion on this a TRUE STORY.



When I was 18 I was walking through the mall and saw a young man walking briskly and carrying a young girl. As he passed I caught the little girls eye and although she was not struggling, she looked terrified, she looked frozen with fear. I watched for a few seconds and my stomach started churning, something was wrong. I chased after him and starting yelling at him to stop. He started running, so I ran after him (I was very fit back then). I caught him and grabbed his shoulder, he spun around. At this point I realised I had no plan of what I was going to do when I caught him, so I just said "give me the girl". The man said, "I'm her father". I just knew he was lying. I put my arms out and the little girl lunged towards me, I managed to rip her away from him. The man just turned and ran away. I was yelling for someone to stop him, all these people were just staring and noone did anything. I didn't want to leave the girl to chase him.



Later when the police were interviewing me I found out that the girls mother had been in a womens dress shop, there was noone else in the shop except 2 shop assistants, one behind the counter serving her mum and one hanging clothes. The little girl was standing right next to her mother at the counter. The police decided that the man must have grabbed the girl while the mother was searching through her purse looking for her credit card.



The man was never caught. The little girl was 3 years old. Lets not think about what the man planned on doing with her. If the little girl had a leash on, he never could have grabbed her.



Years later I was the manager of a shopping centre. We collected an average of 15 lost children under the age of 4 every week and this was only a very small shopping centre. The parents of the lost kids weren't bad parents, they just looked away for a second.



Think what you want about leashes. But they keep kids safe from monsters who prey on children.

Sheila - posted on 12/28/2009

Wow! Isn't it great that we live in a country where we are all free to express our opinions as well as raise our children as we believe best?

I have twin daughters who are now 24 and a son who is 21. We didn't have the backpacks when they were small; we had the velcro "handholders." I will never forget an episode that occurred in front a grocery store on a very busy day. The girls had on their handholders and my son was in a front pack as I pushed the shopping cart. An indignant woman approached me and expressed her distaste of my safety choices, stating the familiar "they are children, not animals!" After listening to her tirade for a minute I pointed out that my children were safe at my side while her toddler was running between cars in the busy parking lot. She had no answer except to scream, curse, and dash after her child.

My children have grown up to be well-adjusted adults who always knew they were loved and valued. They were exceptionally well-behaved, but that little extra sense of security was good for all of us.

As a grandmother, I have bought "hand-holders" for my grandchildren. Although they are perfect angels (I'm sure I'm not biased at all. lol), they are curious little girls and this is not Mayberry. I would rather endure some ugly looks and comments and know that they are safer than risk them being snatched or run over by a car.

Lucy - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Jaime-Leigh:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

 

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

That being said, I don't care if other people choose to use them. Do what works for you, just don't treat people who can't see any benefit to them as though they have something wrong with them. You pick your baby gear and I'll pick mine. The mama who started this thread asked us for our opinion, so we have a right to answer her question. Just because I answer her question honestly does not mean that I go around making rude comments to the parents I see using these devices in public. There are many different options for parents today, so lets respect eachother's right to choose.

Who's being rude to anti-harness people? If anything, it's the other way around. 

And yes, it is very possible that these anti-harness people's kids really DO stay with them consistently and always hold Mommy's hand. I was probably a little too harsh when calling B.S. However, my point, when talking about my own experience, is that I too, was very good about staying with Mom, until that one time. And that is all it takes, is one time. We're talking about toddlers here -- they're not known for their impulse control. And all it takes is for them to see something that excites/upsets them enough that they completely forget themselves. 

I guess I just don't understand why some people are so vehement in their opposition to harnesses? It's not like they're saying, "I don't see a benefit to them." They're saying, "I hate them." "Your kid is a person, not a dog!" "People who use them are too lazy to keep their children under control".  What the heck is with all the judging?  If I want to have my toddler on a harness, am I hurting him? Is he in danger? Is his development being hindered? As far as I can see, harnesses do absolutely NO harm to kids, and can certainly prevent harm from happening. So why the vitriol? 

Exactly what I was thinking Krista!  Someone's kid might be a complete angel at all times...but it only takes a second for them to disappear if they see something they desperately want to get their hands on!  I just don't see what is so "lazy" about wanting to have a problem-free shopping trip or a fun trip to the zoo?  What is the big deal if parents want to use the harness instead of insisting and strictly enforcing that their child hold their hand or a sibling's hand?  All this bullshit about "children need to learn rules and boundaries"...wtf?  You don't spend ALL day at the grocery store...surely they aren't going to un-learn obedience simply because they are wearing a harness!

Most of these posts are saying "I LOVE them" or "I HATE them."  So that makes me think people feel strongly on both sides of the fence.  I have to say that there are other baby "gear" choices I feel pretty strongly about and I'm sure most moms have gear they love and hate.  For instance, I hate disposable diapers on many different levels.  I love my front pack.  If someone started a thread asking opinions on one of these items I have a strong feeling about (positive or negative) I would respond as such.  And quite frankly, I'm sure the mama who started this post expected to get strong opinions on both sides - she likes leashes or harnesses or what ever you want to call them, and her fiance doesn't.  Use the gear you like, don't use what you don't like, and expect people to have strong opinions.

Colleen - posted on 12/27/2009

I love these little item...I have 3 kids and the last 2 are 11 months apart..very busy on outings....so I used them for the safty reason I only have two hands....plus we made it fun we named them put fun snacks in the pockets and I told them that they were wearing them and that was that......they new what to expected and were ok with it....

Jaime - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

 

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

That being said, I don't care if other people choose to use them. Do what works for you, just don't treat people who can't see any benefit to them as though they have something wrong with them. You pick your baby gear and I'll pick mine. The mama who started this thread asked us for our opinion, so we have a right to answer her question. Just because I answer her question honestly does not mean that I go around making rude comments to the parents I see using these devices in public. There are many different options for parents today, so lets respect eachother's right to choose.

Who's being rude to anti-harness people? If anything, it's the other way around. 

And yes, it is very possible that these anti-harness people's kids really DO stay with them consistently and always hold Mommy's hand. I was probably a little too harsh when calling B.S. However, my point, when talking about my own experience, is that I too, was very good about staying with Mom, until that one time. And that is all it takes, is one time. We're talking about toddlers here -- they're not known for their impulse control. And all it takes is for them to see something that excites/upsets them enough that they completely forget themselves. 

I guess I just don't understand why some people are so vehement in their opposition to harnesses? It's not like they're saying, "I don't see a benefit to them." They're saying, "I hate them." "Your kid is a person, not a dog!" "People who use them are too lazy to keep their children under control".  What the heck is with all the judging?  If I want to have my toddler on a harness, am I hurting him? Is he in danger? Is his development being hindered? As far as I can see, harnesses do absolutely NO harm to kids, and can certainly prevent harm from happening. So why the vitriol? 

Exactly what I was thinking Krista!  Someone's kid might be a complete angel at all times...but it only takes a second for them to disappear if they see something they desperately want to get their hands on!  I just don't see what is so "lazy" about wanting to have a problem-free shopping trip or a fun trip to the zoo?  What is the big deal if parents want to use the harness instead of insisting and strictly enforcing that their child hold their hand or a sibling's hand?  All this bullshit about "children need to learn rules and boundaries"...wtf?  You don't spend ALL day at the grocery store...surely they aren't going to un-learn obedience simply because they are wearing a harness!

Jaime - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

 

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

That being said, I don't care if other people choose to use them. Do what works for you, just don't treat people who can't see any benefit to them as though they have something wrong with them. You pick your baby gear and I'll pick mine. The mama who started this thread asked us for our opinion, so we have a right to answer her question. Just because I answer her question honestly does not mean that I go around making rude comments to the parents I see using these devices in public. There are many different options for parents today, so lets respect eachother's right to choose.

Who's being rude to anti-harness people? If anything, it's the other way around. 

And yes, it is very possible that these anti-harness people's kids really DO stay with them consistently and always hold Mommy's hand. I was probably a little too harsh when calling B.S. However, my point, when talking about my own experience, is that I too, was very good about staying with Mom, until that one time. And that is all it takes, is one time. We're talking about toddlers here -- they're not known for their impulse control. And all it takes is for them to see something that excites/upsets them enough that they completely forget themselves. 

I guess I just don't understand why some people are so vehement in their opposition to harnesses? It's not like they're saying, "I don't see a benefit to them." They're saying, "I hate them." "Your kid is a person, not a dog!" "People who use them are too lazy to keep their children under control".  What the heck is with all the judging?  If I want to have my toddler on a harness, am I hurting him? Is he in danger? Is his development being hindered? As far as I can see, harnesses do absolutely NO harm to kids, and can certainly prevent harm from happening. So why the vitriol? 

Exactly what I was thinking Krista!  Someone's kid might be a complete angel at all times...but it only takes a second for them to disappear if they see something they desperately want to get their hands on!  I just don't see what is so "lazy" about wanting to have a problem-free shopping trip or a fun trip to the zoo?  What is the big deal if parents want to use the harness instead of insisting and strictly enforcing that their child hold their hand or a sibling's hand?  All this bullshit about "children need to learn rules and boundaries"...wtf?  You don't spend ALL day at the grocery store...surely they aren't going to un-learn obedience simply because they are wearing a harness!

Krista - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

 

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

That being said, I don't care if other people choose to use them. Do what works for you, just don't treat people who can't see any benefit to them as though they have something wrong with them. You pick your baby gear and I'll pick mine. The mama who started this thread asked us for our opinion, so we have a right to answer her question. Just because I answer her question honestly does not mean that I go around making rude comments to the parents I see using these devices in public. There are many different options for parents today, so lets respect eachother's right to choose.

Who's being rude to anti-harness people? If anything, it's the other way around. 

And yes, it is very possible that these anti-harness people's kids really DO stay with them consistently and always hold Mommy's hand. I was probably a little too harsh when calling B.S. However, my point, when talking about my own experience, is that I too, was very good about staying with Mom, until that one time. And that is all it takes, is one time. We're talking about toddlers here -- they're not known for their impulse control. And all it takes is for them to see something that excites/upsets them enough that they completely forget themselves. 

I guess I just don't understand why some people are so vehement in their opposition to harnesses? It's not like they're saying, "I don't see a benefit to them." They're saying, "I hate them." "Your kid is a person, not a dog!" "People who use them are too lazy to keep their children under control".  What the heck is with all the judging?  If I want to have my toddler on a harness, am I hurting him? Is he in danger? Is his development being hindered? As far as I can see, harnesses do absolutely NO harm to kids, and can certainly prevent harm from happening. So why the vitriol? 

ROSE - posted on 12/27/2009

I feel that what helps keep your child safe and out of harms was is better than letting you child run around. I use one when I was traveling back stateside from Greece. I was traveling with a 15month old and was 5 months prego. Try holding on to you toddler, go through customs, and drag around luggage. This was a life saver for me. Do what best for you, people are always going to have their own comments, as to whats right and whats wrong. Good Luck..

Jessie - posted on 12/27/2009

I have a puppy and a monkey backpack leash for my kids and they are so helpful! We used them when we went to the zoo on Mother's Day this year and just about every Mom in there asked me where I got them. I don't see anything wrong with them. I would rather use it, especially in very crowded areas, because how long do you really expect a kid to hold your hand thats gonna get really sweaty and gross after awhile. My kids love the backpacks too, they ask to use them when we go places so they have a little "freedom" to walk around and someone can't just run off with them.

Gidgit - posted on 12/27/2009

I think they are great safety devices! I have used them on my neices! I especially think they are useful for a child who likes to wander or explore.

Doris - posted on 12/27/2009

Aside from the fact that it doesnt teach the child to mind you or allows ones attention to stray from the child, it is a hazard. Especially if it is not tucked in. I live in NY city and the first thing I thought of was the strap getting caught on something or someone other than yourself using the strap for negative reasons. I dont like it. Gives the adult a false sense of security.

Misty - posted on 12/27/2009

We use one on occasion. Usually I use it when I need to look at things and I'm a bit distracted. But really my husband is very concerned of people snatching our son. So I feel the "leash" is a good way of letting him walk and not just sitting in a stroller and no one can just take him. Even with our eyes on him (which we always do) things can happen...

Jaime - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Lucy:

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

 

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

That being said, I don't care if other people choose to use them. Do what works for you, just don't treat people who can't see any benefit to them as though they have something wrong with them. You pick your baby gear and I'll pick mine. The mama who started this thread asked us for our opinion, so we have a right to answer her question. Just because I answer her question honestly does not mean that I go around making rude comments to the parents I see using these devices in public. There are many different options for parents today, so lets respect eachother's right to choose.

Perhaps I haven't been a mom long enough to know the mind-set of a toddler...but let me just give it a go...I think it's not so much the expectation of failure on their part, so much as the anticipation of their overwhelming curiousity about EVERYTHING.  There is nothing undignified about realizing that children can and will be unpredictable no matter how well you have taught them and no matter how well they might listen...it only takes once for them to disappear...

Sarah - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Sarah:

There good for people who have toddlers that won't go in the stroller or stay put. But I personally never had to use one, my daughter knew she had to be in the stroller and was a very good baby/toddler. My aunt son, hes a love but very active, I think she might have use one once when traveling in an airport (those are times not to mess with safety of your children and do what you must).

The thing that upsets me more than "leash backpacks", are parents who are a 1/2 mile away from their children. I see people like that all the time, I was going into a store and saw this father waiting at the starbucks door while his at most 2 year old was just getting onto the sidewalk from the busy parking lot!!!! Another time it was a mother doing the same thing, but her child also didn't have on a jacket and it was 20 degrees out!!

All you want to do is protect your child, do what you feel is right for you. After all, if God forbid something did happen to your daughter on this trip- she's your baby- no one elses'.

Claudia - posted on 12/27/2009

i hate those, its a child not a dog, and i also believe with a leash they do not learn to stay by you side.

My kids are far away from perfect but we still manage not to loose them.

Hanna - posted on 12/27/2009

It is not a "leash" as described by some. It is a saftey device designed to help keep the most precious thing in the world safe. Use it, if it is of help to you. Ignore other narrow minded people who claim they have perfect children.

Jaclyn - posted on 12/27/2009

Hey whatever works for you! I'm a believer in them because if they run out and something happens it's horrible to think. My fiance hates them too but i tell him to take out my boys and see what happens lol he soon changes his mind lol

Melissa - posted on 12/27/2009

I think they are a great device, b/c the world out there today, you never can be to safe with your child. I would even go as far as putting a beeping device on my baby. And my husband thinks the same too, in fact he wants to put her in all these self defense and karate classes and shes only two months old.

Lucy - posted on 12/27/2009

Quoting Krista:

Quoting Tessa:

I am suprised how many people are pro to them. Me personally, I think they are just wrong. Hold your kids hand or put them in a stroller. I saw someone have their kid on one at the mall last week and he was acting like he was dog. It really upset me. That's fine if people that use them but my son will never have one and he is at the terrible 3 stage and we do just fine going through a crowded mall without always holding hands. I never let my son out of my site I am not saying other people do but I prefer not to use one. My husband doesn't mind them but he respects my wishes to not do that to my kid. Yes he may like it but I find it to upsetting to even think of putting one on my child. I just can't see myself walking my child like I walk my three dogs.
I can understand if some mothers want to use one if their child is bad in public but if they are good you shouldn't need to do it.

It's not that pro-harness parents have kids who are BAD in public. I was extremely good in public. But it just took that one time -- I could have so easily been run over by that car. 

That's all it takes -- one time, for your kid to forget himself and dart into danger. Why risk that just because you don't like how harnesses look? It's not like they're harming the child in any way. 

I think a lot of people who are anti-harness are projecting. They would find it degrading to be on a harness (and rightly so...um...unless you're into that, which is a topic for an entirely different kind of forum), so they just project that to their kids and assume that THEY would find it degrading to be on a harness. 

I find it interesting that you talk about how good you were as a child until the one time you almost got hit by a car, and then try to claim that some one else is BSing when she says her daughter is consistantly good about staying with her.  If you were consistantly good about staying with your mom, why is it so outragious that her daughter is consistantly good?  Maybe her daughter hasn't left a doll in a restaurant yet?

And as far as anti-harness people projecting, I have to say I disagree.  I teach my dog to obey without thinking.  I teach my child to think and reason.  Why?  Because my child will have to take care of herself one day but my dog will always be dependent on people.  Children and dogs are aiming for a different set of life skills and thus need a different set of lessons.  Children frequently understand more than we give them credit for.  My mother was able to teach all three of us that we could follow the rules for public places or not go to public places at a very young age.  And we all have different personalities, but my mother never hesitated to tell us why a rule was in place (even before we could talk) and her enforcement of rules was simple - you want to have the privilage, then you better figure out how to have proper behaviors.  I'm not saying our behavior was perfect, but we had consequences if we tried to run off or slip her hand and thus we were highly modivated to figure out how to behave.

It is not about leash use being undignified, it is expecting your child to fail that is undignified.

Tamika - posted on 12/26/2009

Quoting Carole:

It is NOT a leash! As far as I'm concerned it's a safety device. My daughter was a "traveling toddler" and could disappear from my sight in seconds. There are times when you need to have your hands free, to write a check or use a credit card, get something out of your purse or whatever. With a harness you can just put the loop over your wrist and keep your toddler safely next to you. I'd rather have my child or grandchildren safe than put them at risk for potential kidnapping or any other danger.

I see what your saying but what is wrong with teaching your child to stay put for 2 seconds. I guess maybe my kids are differnt from most. They are by no means perfect, but if tell my 2 year old to stand still next to mommy while I pay for something  he does. Neither my 8 or 2 year old run a muck in the store. And my 8 year old knows if he cant see mommy mommy cant see him, and if I have to look for him there will be a problem. I work at dave and Busters so I see kids lose their parents all the time. I take both my boys there all the time, and I never lose sight of them, I just dont understand.

Ticha - posted on 12/26/2009

Well, I am trying to say is this. Its all up to the parent. It depends on how far your child has gone in this development. Yes, it is a condition. Which has been diagnoised for years but not published. We are not trained to be parents. We are born and what we learn from our parents and others develops unto mind or brain or whatever they can in store unto us. I was raised with the utmost ability to raised your children in a good environment. If you don't have that enviroment then raise them to you utmost ability.
Ticha

Tamika - posted on 12/26/2009

Leashes are for dogs not children, I personally HATE seeing this. I guess if you had more kids than hands while travling it is understandable, but you have one, hold her hand. Traveling is not an excusse. I live in queens NY and do not own a car, I walk or take public transportation with my 8 and 2 year old all the time. Just a couple weeks ago I took my boys upstate to visit my dad. I had to take 1 cab to the train, 2 trians to grandcetral station, and got on metro north for a 2 hour ride all with no leash or stroller. We also had 3 bages. To come back we took the bus back to grand central, walked 4 blocks to catch the train, and a cab to get home. if you teach your child to hold hands they will. If you dont have a free hand, there is always you pocket, bag strap, or pinky finger. Please no leashes!!!!!!

Ticha - posted on 12/26/2009

Well this is a diffuilcult subject. When I was growing up my brother use to take off all over the store we could not find him for hours. Then there's that parent that just doesn't want to be bothered with chasing thier child around. Then again her goes you have a hyperactive child you neeed to shop well what do u do. Leash, go solution. Right! Well, it all depends on your child. Forge what others say, they don't know what you go through. I cou ld say discipline: spank, timeout. OK that may worl for some not for others. you have to decide whats best. Is your child under medication? Then the leash is your choice. But, if he or she is not under medication. How do the act or react to situations? In the end this is up to you.. Think wisely and with a mothers heart you have the last word.. More questions please ask. Tfrancis2269@yahoo.com. God Bless you always.
Ticha

Lise - posted on 12/25/2009

I personally am not a fan, but my mom NEEDED one for me! :) I was a wild child!

I think it all depends on how you use it! Are you going to use it like a dog leash, where she's way ahead of you and you're slowly moving along? Or will it be slack and there just in case? I'm against them because most of the time I see them, my heart goes out to the kids on them. One mom was literally DRAGGING her kid by it.

Tiffany - posted on 12/25/2009

It is the BEST thing they ever came up with. I have and use ALL the time the same one for my 2 year old. They can say what they want but you always know where your kid is!!!!

IZABELA - posted on 12/25/2009

I find they are much less confining than putting the child in a stroller; at least the child is still exploring, just staying at a safe distance. In crowded areas I don't see a problem with it (theme parks, airports,etc)

Johanna - posted on 12/25/2009

DO what works for you, I would, especially considering the traveling on a bus with several changes, I would say it's a very safe method as you can always stop your child from running into traffic, plus the fact that you don't have to hold their hand gives them a feeling of independence and they are free to use their hands.

Kiersten - posted on 12/25/2009

I have a monkey backpack and the tail is long enough for the parent to hold (aka a leash) I think these are great and you should not care what other people think of them. I have a very hyper, excited little 2 year old, he wont stay in a stoller and runs off any chance he can get. I think these are very safe to have. You always know where your child is. My son loves his, whenever I tell him we are going shopping he runs to his room and grabs the monkey. These are great!!

Robin - posted on 12/25/2009

You need to do what is best for your situation. There were times that I had my daughters on the 'leash' esp. if we were in a crowd. Other times when we were just at a store or somewhere there wasn't as many people, the hand or holding onto a cart works well. I was always afraid that when we were in large crowds that I would lose her if I lost her hand. Kids can be quick and I could keep better handle on the leash.
Best wishes,
Robin

Carole - posted on 12/25/2009

It is NOT a leash! As far as I'm concerned it's a safety device. My daughter was a "traveling toddler" and could disappear from my sight in seconds. There are times when you need to have your hands free, to write a check or use a credit card, get something out of your purse or whatever. With a harness you can just put the loop over your wrist and keep your toddler safely next to you. I'd rather have my child or grandchildren safe than put them at risk for potential kidnapping or any other danger.

Christina - posted on 12/25/2009

it is a opinion thing. i have had one for my son and got alot of crap for it but there are times you may need it due to crowds and so forth. if you feel like you need one then use it. its a choice you have to make and dont worry about the ppl who think is "for animals" or what not. you just do what you need to. if it makes you feel safer on the bus then use it

Brenda - posted on 12/25/2009

My kid could out run me even when he was one. So I like it. I only used it in very social settings. The zoo, fireworks, state fair and anywhere I needed him to be near me. I used to think that bigger kids in stroller was stupid. Now I know that it helps to keep them safe.