“Seriously? That’s a child, not a pet!”
“Oh, thank you for your enlightening feedback! I suppose puppy treats and crate sleeping are off the table too, huh? Can I still consider the shock collar?”
Honestly, folks, just stop. No matter the parenting choice, there will always be someone ready to critique a stranger’s methods. Maybe your children never outgrew the stroller only to find themselves unable to control their impulses, but mine certainly have. The moment they spot something—anything—they want to dash after it, immediately. Each of my kids has experienced that frustrating gap between the eagerness to walk and the ability to listen and hold a parent’s hand in public.
Have you ever been on a winter stroll, only to find your toddler bolting toward the street, leaving you clutching their empty mitten? I have. Have you tried herding two kids under four through an international airport solo? I have. I’d much rather have them in a harness than risk losing them or worse. I’m just pragmatic like that.
Of course, I teach them to hold hands, listen, and not dart off. But I’m not about to put their safety in the hands of their impulsive little brains, especially when I know that the lesson hasn’t fully taken hold. Little kids are incredibly fast. Even the most vigilant parent can find themselves with a child who suddenly bolts. It’s their nature to test boundaries, often leaving parents in near panic. And even when they do start to gain some impulse control, some kids are simply stubborn and determined to do their own thing.
Using a child leash ensures they stay close by. Sure, there are people out there who misuse them, but let’s be real—those folks are the exception, not the rule. For a kid who struggles to hold a hand and not run off, a leash can be a lifesaver. Plus, it allows them a bit more freedom to explore than simply holding onto my hand would.
Interestingly, my kids love their backpacks and often ask to wear them long after they’ve outgrown the leash aspect.
Here’s the deal, people: we can’t have it both ways. The internet goes into a frenzy when a parent turns their back and a child runs off into a dangerous situation. At the same time, it erupts when it sees a child in a harness. No matter what a parent chooses, there will always be someone ready to judge. So here’s a suggestion: You do what you believe is best for your kids’ safety, and I’ll do the same for mine. Let’s agree to keep our opinions to ourselves.
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Summary
Using a child leash is a practical solution for many parents navigating the challenges of keeping young children safe. While critics may voice their opinions, the priority should always be the child’s safety. Every parent must choose what works best for their family without feeling judged.