What are your thoughts on kid leashes/harnesses?

http://www.leapsandbounds.com/assets/images/product/detail/06472_1.jpg

I have no problem with them. I never had one, but there were times I wish I did. If it keeps a child safe and from running away into a dangerous situation, I am all for it!

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

Yup! I have one(it looks like a cute little monkey, and it's a backpack with the leash attached). DS LOVES it. I've only used it once, at the state fair-not a good place for a two year old to dart into a crowd!

I used this kind with my ODS
http://xcf.xanga.com/941c167401533144868451/s107262089.jpg
I got it at Target

http://xd7.xanga.com/eb6c3274c1535144868448/s107262086.jpg
My ODS was a runner. Rather then him get lost or hit by a car in the parking lot I put his back pack on him. I always got compliments because I don't think people really knew what it was. It didn't look like the plain harness (which my kid would not wear)

When I was pregnant with my YDS I was alone I could not chase him down and he needed to learn how to walk with me. Now he does so nicely he either holds the stroller handle if I have the stroller or he holds my hand if the baby is in the sling.

I don't care what other people think of them they kept my child safe at six flags and on other mundane errands. They are very common in England I remember seeing lot of little ones with them on in crowded places. Obviously he does nto need one anymore. It is not a leash, and I was not treating my child like a dog by having it on him.

I never used them on my kids...they are children NOT dogs. But if it works for you...then that's great. It's just not my cup of tea.

When I see people using those it bothers me. They are children not dogs. There are more appropriate ways to keep your children with you and safe than using those.

In the case of a mentally hanidcapped child I feel a little different about them... If the child simple cannot understand because they are mentally retarded or something of that nature then using that to keep them safe is alright I suppose, but that's really the only good reason I could see for using those.


ETA: I have 3 children 5 year old and under. I go out with them alone.. not once has any one of them wondered or ran away from me. Part of being a parent is supervising your children.

I hate that reference...just because dogs use leashes....does not mean we are treating our children like dogs by using a similar(but not the same) item to keep them safe.

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

This is exactly how I feel. If my toddler takes off running, I run right behind him.

I'm indifferent on the subject. But I believe that most parents are just looking out for the safety of their child-and I could never judge that!

I used this kind with my ODS
http://xcf.xanga.com/941c167401533144868451/s107262089.jpg
I got it at Target

http://xd7.xanga.com/eb6c3274c1535144868448/s107262086.jpg
My ODS was a runner. Rather then him get lost or hit by a car in the parking lot I put his back pack on him. I always got compliments because I don't think people really knew what it was. It didn't look like the plain harness (which my kid would not wear)

When I was pregnant with my YDS I was alone I could not chase him down and he needed to learn how to walk with me. Now he does so nicely he either holds the stroller handle if I have the stroller or he holds my hand if the baby is in the sling.

I don't care what other people think of them they kept my child safe at six flags and on other mundane errands. They are very common in England I remember seeing lot of little ones with them on in crowded places. Obviously he does nto need one anymore. It is not a leash, and I was not treating my child like a dog by having it on him.

My youngest dd was a runner too and she could get out of any stroller buckles with ease.

This is exactly how I feel. If my toddler takes off running, I run right behind him.

As do I, but in a large-crowd situation, it's not so easy to follow when they run between legs, etc.

I think they look silly. I never had to use one. My child listened to me when I said NO STAY HERE.

As do I, but in a large-crowd situation, it's not so easy to follow when they run between legs, etc.

I agree, It's not always easy to just take off after a child when you have other children in tow as well....some people are pretty lucky and their little ones will stay put and not run off....some of us aren't that lucky. My first 2 kids were great, my 3rd a runner....and a fast runner

I hate that reference...just because dogs use leashes....does not mean we are treating our children like dogs by using a similar(but not the same) item to keep them safe.


It's the same thing... It's a harness with a leash. No matter how you pretty it up, it's the same thing.

If people really need them or want to use them that's fine, but I definitely wouldn't have a harness and leash on MY child, they just really bother me. It's something my husband and I wont use, but we can see someone who has a child who is a serious runner wanting to use one.

They may also be good for parents who cannot lift(and hold for long periods of time) their child due to medical problems, but in a place that a stroller would not be suitable.

I'm indifferent on the subject. But I believe that most parents are just looking out for the safety of their child-and I could never judge that!

:agree

I agree, It's not always easy to just take off after a child when you have other children in tow as well....some people are pretty lucky and their little ones will stay put and not run off....some of us aren't that lucky. My first 2 kids were great, my 3rd a runner....and a fast runner

AGreed!!! Just because our kids(toddler, here) don't always listen when we tell them to stay put, doesn't make us bad parents...major congrats to you guys who were so lucky with your little ones!

It's the same thing... It's a harness with a leash. No matter how you pretty it up, it's the same thing.

If people really need them or want to use them that's fine, but I definitely wouldn't have a harness and leash on MY child, they just really bother me. It's something my husband and I wont use, but we can see someone who has a child who is a serious runner wanting to use one.

But it isn't the same thing, because they are not used in the same way. Just like a vase and a drinking glass are the same shape, but not the same thing.
I don't tug on my kid's harness and tell him to "heel". :rolleyes I hold his hand and keep the slack wrapped around my wrist in CASE he decides to dart off suddenly. He's a quick one and I take no chances!!!

This is another one of those situations where you are trying to do the best you can as a parent, trying to keep them safe, and you have people give you terrible stares and stuff when/if you were using one. I don't understand why people can't let people be, let them do what is best for them and their children with out them having to feel like they are just this horrible parent when ultimately they are taking the best care of their child they can.

I used to HATE seeing them used. I had read articles from psychologists (however that's spelled) about negative psychological effects on children who used the harnesses. And it just looked like a leash so I was completely against them.

But now with DD, there have been times I've wished I had one. She's starting to refuse to sit in the grocery cart and wants to walk beside it. She started out being really good about holding onto the cart, but lately she's refusing to hold on and wants to wander/run off. I put her back in the car of course, but she can get out of the buckle so it's a struggle the rest of the shopping trip. I bring toys and snacks and drinks for her, but she still gets restless.

Also, when out in the mall and stuff, I always make her use her stroller. But again, she's started wanting to walk and refusing to hold onto the stroller or my hand. So I have to put her back in and then cut my trip short because she's upset about sitting in the stroller. It's times like those that I think about getting one of those harnesses so I don't have to fight with her as much. Also, I freak out when she pulls away from me and runs off. Of course I chase her down, but I'm so scared of her being kidnapped or getting hurt.

But I still can't get past what those psychologists were saying (this was back in the day-don't know how they percieve them now) and that it just looks WRONG, like kids are on leashes like animals.

My son was quick, children that are runner's generally are. I hate the dog comments why o people have to say things like that?

We were at Barnes & Noble on afternoon in the children's section I was 8 1/2 months pregnant with Jacob. We were sitting down reading a story. Suddenly Darian took off. Now at 8 1/2 months pregnant it is sort of hard to just jump up when you were practically sitting on the ground the benches in the children's section are low.

I could not see over the shelves and I always seemed to be one spot behind him just as I would get there he would take off again. When he got to the front doors some women coming in held the door open for him and he ran outside the store.

I was still frantically searching for him INSIDE the store. When I heard the women telling someone "a little boy just left" I ran out the front door. He was already down at the END of the line of shops a good 2oo yds from me. When I caught up with him he had gone BEHIND the shops. So I really don't care what people think of me. He could of been hit by a car all because I could not see him once he took off and I could not catch up to him easily as pregnant as I was.

No one stopped him, not one person. I could of lost him that day. Hit by a car or kidnapped. I will use a harness rather then EVER go through that feeling again. When I could not find him I thought he was kidnapped. In that ONE minute that I had NO IDEA where he was. The store people were no help at all, no code adam nothing. It was one of the scariest things I have ever had to go through.

AGreed!!! Just because our kids(toddler, here) don't always listen when we tell them to stay put, doesn't make us bad parents...major congrats to you guys who were so lucky with your little ones!

No you are in no way bad parents. Mine just always stayed where i told them to. Of course they knew they would get spanked for not listening.

This is another one of those situations where you are trying to do the best you can as a parent, trying to keep them safe, and you have people give you terrible stares and stuff when/if you were using one. I don't understand why people can't let people be, let them do what is best for them and their children with out them having to feel like they are just this horrible parent when ultimately they are taking the best care of their child they can.

I personally don't like them but I've never said anything or given looks to people I've seen using them.

My child listened to me when I said NO STAY HERE.

MOST of the time DD will listen. But it's hard to grocery shop when I'm having to say that every other minute.

My son was quick, children that are runner's generally are. I hate the dog comments why o people have to say things like that?

We were at Barnes & Noble on afternoon in the children's section I was 8 1/2 months pregnant with Jacob. We were sitting down reading a story. Suddenly Darian took off. Now at 8 1/2 months pregnant it is sort of hard to just jump up when you were practically sitting on the ground the benches in the children's section are low.

I could not see over the shelves and I always seemed to be one spot behind him just as I would get there he would take off again. When he got to the front doors some women coming in held the door open for him and he ran outside the store.

I was still frantically searching for him INSIDE the store. When I heard the women telling someone "a little boy just left" I ran out the front door. He was already down at the END of the line of shops a good 2oo yds from me. When I caught up with him he had gone BEHIND the shops. So I really don't care what people think of me. He could of been hit by a car all because I could not see him once he took off and I could not catch up to him easily as pregnant as I was.

No one stopped him, not one person. I could of lost him that day. Hit by a car or kidnapped. I will use a harness rather then EVER go through that feeling again. When I could not find him I thought he was kidnapped. In that ONE minute that I had NO IDEA where he was. The store people were no help at all, no code adam nothing. It was one of the scariest things I have ever had to go through.

That is so scary and a perfect example of why one would be a good thing.

I think they look silly. I never had to use one. My child listened to me when I said NO STAY HERE.

Lucky for you my ODS was & is very hard headed. My YDS is not a runner and listen's a whole lot better. Doesn't make the parents of a runner bad parents at all.

No you are in no way bad parents. Mine just always stayed where i told them to. Of course they knew they would get spanked for not listening.

We spank as well, and some kids are just their own little people from day one, no matter how you punish or reward them. Unfortunately mine is one of those! :lol

I don't have kids, but I've leashed my godson. His mom has one, but rarley uses it, and I had to watch him one day(emergency style) and I REALLY needed to go grocery shopping, so I leashed him and took him with me. I guess my thought on it is that if it keeps the kid from running away in a store or being kidnapped, it's a good thing. I've never heard of any children being abducted while they were tethered to their parents

This is another one of those situations where you are trying to do the best you can as a parent, trying to keep them safe, and you have people give you terrible stares and stuff when/if you were using one. I don't understand why people can't let people be, let them do what is best for them and their children with out them having to feel like they are just this horrible parent when ultimately they are taking the best care of their child they can.

I agree. I don't know anything about parenting..but one thing I've learned is that it varies from parent to parent and child to child.

I personally don't like them but I've never said anything or given looks to people I've seen using them.

You may not, but I have seen many that do. Like I said I haven't used one, but I wish I had quite a few times.

Lucky for you my ODS was & is very hard headed. My YDS is not a runner and listen's a whole lot better. Doesn't make the parents of a runner bad parents at all.


Ok where did I say that you were bad parents? I never said that.

You may not, but I have seen many that do. Like I said I haven't used one, but I wish I had quite a few times.

I'm sure people do give looks like people do with anything. I get looks all the time for other things... like the fact that I look like I'm 16 and have 3 children :lol I don't just get looks.. I get rude comments :lol

My son was quick, children that are runner's generally are. I hate the dog comments why o people have to say things like that?

We were at Barnes & Noble on afternoon in the children's section I was 8 1/2 months pregnant with Jacob. We were sitting down reading a story. Suddenly Darian took off. Now at 8 1/2 months pregnant it is sort of hard to just jump up when you were practically sitting on the ground the benches in the children's section are low.

I could not see over the shelves and I always seemed to be one spot behind him just as I would get there he would take off again. When he got to the front doors some women coming in held the door open for him and he ran outside the store.

I was still frantically searching for him INSIDE the store. When I heard the women telling someone "a little boy just left" I ran out the front door. He was already down at the END of the line of shops a good 2oo yds from me. When I caught up with him he had gone BEHIND the shops. So I really don't care what people think of me. He could of been hit by a car all because I could not see him once he took off and I could not catch up to him easily as pregnant as I was.

No one stopped him, not one person. I could of lost him that day. Hit by a car or kidnapped. I will use a harness rather then EVER go through that feeling again. When I could not find him I thought he was kidnapped. In that ONE minute that I had NO IDEA where he was. The store people were no help at all, no code adam nothing. It was one of the scariest things I have ever had to go through.

this type of situation, and especially large crowd situations like amusement parks and parades and stuff, are prime examples of why the little harnesses are best to use sometimes.

also, i think the little monkey backpack thing is adorable. i will use that kind of thing when needed when my little one is up and running around

I could not see over the shelves and I always seemed to be one spot behind him just as I would get there he would take off again. When he got to the front doors some women coming in held the door open for him and he ran outside the store.

I was still frantically searching for him INSIDE the store. When I heard the women telling someone "a little boy just left" I ran out the front door. He was already down at the END of the line of shops a good 2oo yds from me. When I caught up with him he had gone BEHIND the shops. So I really don't care what people think of me. He could of been hit by a car all because I could not see him once he took off and I could not catch up to him easily as pregnant as I was.

No one stopped him, not one person. I could of lost him that day. Hit by a car or kidnapped. I will use a harness rather then EVER go through that feeling again. When I could not find him I thought he was kidnapped. In that ONE minute that I had NO IDEA where he was. The store people were no help at all, no code adam nothing. It was one of the scariest things I have ever had to go through.

That's one of my worst nightmares. I can't believe that woman just let him out when there wasn't an adult with him!! One major reason I could see using one...But I'm still torn enough I haven't even brought it up to DH to see his feelings on it.

I'm sure people do give looks like people do with anything. I get looks all the time for other things... like the fact that I look like I'm 16 and have 3 children :lol I don't just get looks.. I get rude comments :lol

:lol Your so lucky to look young and will be loving looking so young later on in life!! People are so rude..geezzz!!

Ok where did I say that you were bad parents? I never said that.

You didn't :hugs, but I think this comment My child listened to me when I said NO STAY HERE. made it seem to some as....Good parent has a child that listens...bad parents child doesn't. :dunno

:lol Your so lucky to look young and will be loving looking so young later on in life!! People are so rude..geezzz!!


I got the worse comments when I was pregnant for my 3rd and out with the other 2! :lol Poeple can really be rude.. hey if you think it, that's cool... but actually saying "oh wow, now THAT baby must have been an accident.." was really freaking rude!

I'm indifferent on the subject. But I believe that most parents are just looking out for the safety of their child-and I could never judge that!

Amen to this.

This is another one of those situations where you are trying to do the best you can as a parent, trying to keep them safe, and you have people give you terrible stares and stuff when/if you were using one. I don't understand why people can't let people be, let them do what is best for them and their children with out them having to feel like they are just this horrible parent when ultimately they are taking the best care of their child they can.

Amen to you too. It amazes me to see people equate putting a safety harness on your child with treating them like a dog. I guess wanting your children to not get hit by a car or stolen from you in a crowd is treating them like a dog? At least they are trying to keep their kids SAFE. It may not be the same way everyone else does it, but that is the purpose of the harnesses. Better than the parents who let their kids run wild where ever they go. It seems like you can't win no matter what you do sometimes, even if you are doing something responsible like keep your child within arms length. I guess using a piece of material makes that intention somehow wrong? I seriously don't get it...

oh and I have a son who likes to run... my 18 month old.... that boy runs away from me laughing :tsktsk

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

:yes Same here!

I'm sure people do give looks like people do with anything. I get looks all the time for other things... like the fact that I look like I'm 16 and have 3 children I don't just get looks.. I get rude comments

I was 19 when one of my brothers was born but looked waaay younger. I used to get a TON of DIRTY looks when I'd take him to the mall in a snuggly or even his stroller. Even more when I was with DH (then my DB). People would shake their heads at me and everything! I never got a comment but I could see some of them wanted to say something....And he wasn't even mine-I was babysitting!

When I see people using those it bothers me. They are children not dogs. There are more appropriate ways to keep your children with you and safe than using those.

In the case of a mentally hanidcapped child I feel a little different about them... If the child simple cannot understand because they are mentally retarded or something of that nature then using that to keep them safe is alright I suppose, but that's really the only good reason I could see for using those.


ETA: I have 3 children 5 year old and under. I go out with them alone.. not once has any one of them wondered or ran away from me. Part of being a parent is supervising your children.

I agree with you, Sarah!

I have a teddy bear one for DD and she wears it just fine. She usually holds onto my finger while she has it on and doesn't notice, but if she tries to make a break for it she won't get far. We don't use it alot but it's nice to have.

You didn't :hugs, but I think this comment My child listened to me when I said NO STAY HERE. made it seem to some as....Good parent has a child that listens...bad parents child doesn't. :dunno


Well I didnt mean it that way so sorry if it was taken like that. Mine listened better at 2 then they do at 11 now.

I think they are a very good idea. Little ones are fast and can get away from you in the blink of an eye. In large crowds and busy places it would take seconds for a toddler to run around a corner and you be right on their heels and all of a sudden someone snatches the kid up and poof gone forever..... Sooo very sad but it happens all the time.

Well I didnt mean it that way so sorry if it was taken like that. Mine listened better at 2 then they do at 11 now.

:rofl I have an 11 year old nephew so I know exactly what you are talking about.

I DO supervise my children they are not allowed to runamuck or touch things or act insane in the shops. They are disciplined and they have rules. My ODS was a runner and this helped me to keep him with me while he learned its not ok to run away from Mama. I am well aware of what my job as a parent is and I used a tool to help my child learn.

Others use spanking but I don't go around saying they should do blah blah blah implying they don't have control of their kids or watch them properly because if they did then they wouldn't need to spank. I don't even THINK that about the subject.

I simply feel that some tools work for some families & some do not.

Well I didnt mean it that way so sorry if it was taken like that. Mine listened better at 2 then they do at 11 now.

I know, it goes with that whole not being able to read tone...I think that is what some may have felt though, so that is why I mentioned it. my 11 year old listened better at 2 yrs old too what is up with that :lol

Amen to this.
Amen to you too. It amazes me to see people equate putting a safety harness on your child with treating them like a dog. I guess wanting your children to not get hit by a car or stolen from you in a crowd is treating them like a dog? At least they are trying to keep their kids SAFE. It may not be the same way everyone else does it, but that is the purpose of the harnesses. Better than the parents who let their kids run wild where ever they go. It seems like you can't win no matter what you do sometimes, even if you are doing something responsible like keep your child within arms length. I guess using a piece of material makes that intention somehow wrong? I seriously don't get it...

Sorry...but just because I never used a harness because I feel they make children look like dogs does not mean I was not keeping my kids SAFE when they were little. My children NEVER ran wild, and I always kept them within arms length. Must have done something right because they are both still here. :puzz

Sorry...but just because I never used a harness because I feel they make children look like dogs does not mean I was not keeping my kids SAFE when they were little. My children NEVER ran wild, and I always kept them within arms length. Must have done something right because they are both still here. :puzz

:yes

Ok where did I say that you were bad parents? I never said that.

Sorry I took it the wrong way. I read into your statement :arg

I DO supervise my children they are not allowed to runamuck or touch things or act insane in the shops. They are disciplined and they have rules. My ODS was a runner and this helped me to keep him with me while he learned its not ok to run away from Mama. I am well aware of what my job as a parent is and I used a tool to help my child learn.

Others use spanking but I don't go around saying they should do blah blah blah implying they don't have control of their kids or watch them properly because if they did then they wouldn't need to spank. I don't even THINK that about the subject.

I simply feel that some tools work for some families & some do not.

I agree with all of that :yes I too supervise my children, but my youngest still darted off more than a couple of times. It just became such a bummer to go anywhere, so I just stayed home and that sucked.

I used one on DS years ago... We went hiking on the north shore of Superior, and I really wanted him to come with.. There was a few drop offs, and cliffs, I didn't want him running off the side of the mountain..

But I've never used one since then, I've never really needed one..

Sorry...but just because I never used a harness because I feel they make children look like dogs does not mean I was not keeping my kids SAFE when they were little. My children NEVER ran wild, and I always kept them within arms length. Must have done something right because they are both still here. :puzz

No one said that though.

Now if I was at Disney World or something like that I might consider using one on my toddler (hell maybe even on my 10 and 11 year old). I just never needed to consider using one in the mall or the store. Whatever works for you as a parent is what you should do .


Sorry if anyone took my earlier statement as saying you were bad parents. Not intended that way.,

No one said that though.

Wicked implied that with her post.

I still think you know.....every kid is different, just because someone is lucky enough to have kids that do listen "or are better at parenting", doesn't mean someone elses kids are the same as yours. All 3 of my kids were very different. Like I said before my first 2 were pretty darn good, my last one was a runner and no consequences/rewards/anything would work with her...all of the things that worked with my first 2 did not work with my third. I think it really does feel like people think or look down on people for things like this. Just because you don't like it why make others feel badly for doing what they think is safe/best for theirs?

I used one on DS years ago... We went hiking on the north shore of Superior, and I really wanted him to come with.. There was a few drop offs, and cliffs, I didn't want him running off the side of the mountain..

But I've never used one since then, I've never really needed one..


For things like that... I don't see anything wrong with using them.

Now if I was at Disney World or something like that I might consider using one on my toddler (hell maybe even on my 10 and 11 year old). I just never needed to consider using one in the mall or the store. Whatever works for you as a parent is what you should do .


Sorry if anyone took my earlier statement as saying you were bad parents. Not intended that way.,


I was syaing the same thing to Tony just now. I just cna't see using them going to target or whatever.. but in a place like that maybe.

Sorry...but just because I never used a harness because I feel they make children look like dogs does not mean I was not keeping my kids SAFE when they were little. My children NEVER ran wild, and I always kept them within arms length. Must have done something right because they are both still here. :puzz

No, no... I'm not saying that is the only way to keep them safe. I am saying that is the PURPOSE of them, so I don't get why anyone would think so badly of someone who uses one. Equating using a safety harness to keep your child close with treating them like a dog? They aren't tying their kids up in the back yard with them... lol.

No, no... I'm not saying that is the only way to keep them safe. I am saying that is the PURPOSE of them, so I don't get why anyone would think so badly of someone who uses one. Equating using a safety harness to keep your child close with treating them like a dog? They aren't tying their kids up in the back yard with them... lol.


:wink gotcha! I never said they were treating them like dogs...I just never liked the idea because it makes them "look" like dogs. KWIM? My dogs use similar harnesses and that is what they remind me of.

If they work for people cool...but I would never use them.

Wicked implied that with her post.

I did not IMPLY anything. You assumed that's what I meant by what I said. I said...

At least they are trying to keep their kids SAFE. Better than the parents who let their kids run wild where ever they go.

I did not say "People who don't use leashes let their kids run wild" or "You have to have a leash to keep your kids safe".

Your assumption, NOT my implication. If that's what I meant, I would have said that, I swear. :P

:wink gotcha! I never said they were treating them like dogs...I just never liked the idea because it makes them "look" like dogs. KWIM? My dogs use similar harnesses and that is what they remind me of.

If they work for people cool...but I would never use them.

Okay seriously you have GOT to stop posting while I am posting. LMAO. This is getting confusing.

No problemo don't worry. I just wanted to clarify. LOL. I shoulda been more clear. :lovesign

:lolsign SORRY!!

:lolsign SORRY!!

Your dogs are super adorable so I guess I will forgive you... :P :giggle

Your dogs are super adorable so I guess I will forgive you... :P :giggle

I knew the boxers would get 'cha. :rofl And I am sorry I insinuated anything from your post. :hugs

I knew the boxers would get 'cha. :rofl And I am sorry I insinuated anything from your post. :hugs

No, no, don't apologize. It's not like you yelled at me and called me an anti-harness hating bigot or anything. LMAO. I have no problem explaining myself if it helps! :tu

These things kept my middle child alive and me sane! He is ADHD so he would wonder off constantly, and no parent can every second of the day! I straped one of these babies to my belt loop and to him (they were velcro arm bands and not harnesses then) and I could do my house work or whatever and still keep him close!

:hugs for everyone! Yay for us all being great mommies! :woot

:hugs for everyone! Yay for us all being great mommies! :woot

Most important thing!!

Something else just popped into my head... I wonder if the psychological problems supposedly associated with child harnesses have anything to do with liking to be tied up later in life... :lmao

I'm indifferent on the subject. But I believe that most parents are just looking out for the safety of their child-and I could never judge that!

:agree
My mom use to use the kind that go around your wrist and connect with a stretchy cord. She has been in a wheelchair since she was 18, so it wasn't easy for her to go out with me and my sister when we were little, she couldn't exactly run after us, so it was useful for her. I'm not a mother myself so I have no opinion either way really.

:dunno..I personally would never use one...I think it is better to just keep an eye on your child, teach them to stay near you, and to hold there hand. If my son is so out of control where he wont stay near me then he will go in a stroller or a cart until he is old enough to handle it.

okay, here's my two cents...before i had kids i referred to them as "leashes" and swore i would never put one on a kid. fast forward a few years to me having a 3year old (meagan) and very determined and stubborn 1.5 year old (kylie). we have the "monkey backpack". kylie loves the stupid thing. she insists on wearing it around the house half the time. i HAVE used it on her a few times at the mall. she would pitch a fit in the stroller, my back can't handle carrying her combined with all the walking around and she is a runner. plus, i had meagan to contend with.

meagan has always been VERY good about holding my hand or walking right next to me. she doesn't run off. kylie takes off like a bat out of hell. with me just holding her hand i'm afraid of her hurting her arm if she tries to pull away. also, if she DID get out of my grip, meagan wouldn't be able to keep up with me to chase her.

i've only used it in public MAYBE twice and that last time was quite a few months ago. the only time i used it was if we were going to be at the mall for a loooong time (she still sits in the cart at the grocery store happily and does okay staying with me for shorter errands and stuff). i get looks ranging from "awww, how cute" to "OMG, that kid's on a leash!?!". honestly, i'd think i'd rather get the looks for using the harness knowing that she can't get away from me and is safe rather than getting other looks because i'm spanking her or have an unruly child pitching a fit because she's not allowed to "walk like a big girl". :dunno

:dunno..I personally would never use one...I think it is better to just keep an eye on your child, teach them to stay near you, and to hold there hand. If my son is so out of control where he wont stay near me then he will go in a stroller or a cart until he is old enough to handle it.

My son is a Houdini...takes him all of three or four seconds to unhook and climb out of any stroller, carseat, or cart. Aaaugh it's frustrating! CUte, though...maybe I'll teach him some card tricks, too? :thinking :lol

They are Kids, Not Dogs.

They are Kids, Not Dogs.

Which is precisely why we are so hellbent on protecting them. Please read the thread...

i think in a situation like a state fair, rodeo, or other place with several hazards it can be beneficial but i don't like seeing them in the grocery store or mall kwim

My mom used one for my lil brother a couple times. I don't really care either way. Yea sure watch your child but kids are frikken fast you turn your head for a second and they could be gone. I rather be safe then sorry and I don't see the harm in using it.

My son is a Houdini...takes him all of three or four seconds to unhook and climb out of any stroller, carseat, or cart. Aaaugh it's frustrating! CUte, though...maybe I'll teach him some card tricks, too? :thinking :lol

That's how my dd was! Out of a seatbelt in the stroller in a heartbeat!

My SIL and Bro have one for my nephew as he will dart off and not listen to you say no or stop. He is as hard headed as both of them.. also he can houdini himself out of the stroller.. I think if you use any means necessary to protect your child it is your choice.. I never had a need for one because luckily my kids liked the stroller or chilling in the grocery cart. My nephew not so much and when I have taken him out I have used the backpack style one they have for him.. It's not real easy to chase after a small child when you might have a cart or stroller with your purse or diaper bag in or other kids. Just my .02 cents

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

For all the comments of they are kids not dogs...that just really comes across wrong. I am sure no one considers their child a dog....though my dog gets pampered/treated pretty damn well!

i think in a situation like a state fair, rodeo, or other place with several hazards it can be beneficial but i don't like seeing them in the grocery store or mall kwim

i'm just wondering why you think there's a difference? our mall has stairs, elevators, escalators, tons of stores to hide in, numerous exits to the parking lots, and tons of strangers...IMO, those are all hazardous too *if* you child manages to get away from you. not picking on you, just honestly curious :D

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

Some people will just never understand what it is like unless they have a child that can be so difficult. I have 2 that were great...one that wasn't...My parenting was the same. I think statements like these can be so offensive to so many people. You can teach the hell out of a kid something, doesn't mean it's always gonna stick. What ever happened to don't judge a person unless you have walked in their shoes. And how is doing something you think is safe for your child taking the easy way out?

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

Using a harness does not = taking the easy way out. Not for everyone and it isn't fair to throw that label on everyone who uses one. Not all children are the same, and teaching some is a lot harder than teaching others. Why fault someone as if they are just lazy parents who aren't trying hard enough to teach their kids to behave when at least they realize that their kids don't understand not to run off enough to do something about it?

Using a harness does not = taking the easy way out. Not for everyone and it isn't fair to throw that label on everyone who uses one. Not all children are the same, and teaching some is a lot harder than teaching others. Why fault someone as if they are just lazy parents who aren't trying hard enough to teach their kids to behave when at least they realize that their kids don't understand not to run off enough to do something about it?

ITA and that sounds better than what I wrote :giggle

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

that was pretty offensive to me. i AM teaching kylie to listen. however, having a very engergetic and inquisitive toddler means it's an ongoing process. because i have chosen to use a harness in the past to ensure her safety does not mean i'm "taking the easy way out". it means that i had a backup in case she got it in her head to try to test her boundaries and NOT listen/stay with me.

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.
obviously you have never been shopping with my nephew.. He has a mind of his own, and just because mom or dad says stop doesn't mean he will.. each child is different, mine were easy going and loved to shop.. My nephew hates to be in his stroller, yet won't hold your hand when you take him out.. so in your opinion they should what never go out???

I relied on good ol' fashion disciplining to keep my kid in check :tu

i'm just wondering why you think there's a difference? our mall has stairs, elevators, escalators, tons of stores to hide in, numerous exits to the parking lots, and tons of strangers...IMO, those are all hazardous too *if* you child manages to get away from you. not picking on you, just honestly curious :D

because at a rodeo or state fair there are animals that weigh 100s of lbs and more people than at a typical mall setting. there are hazards that are naturally intriguing to a child/toddler. it's like look momma a cow and he runs to the cow, cow gets scared, knocks child over and steps on him and kills him. sure a fatal accident could happen at the mall or store but the chances of your child being stepped on by a cow or horse at a mall is much smaller

For all the comments of they are kids not dogs...that just really comes across wrong. I am sure no one considers their child a dog....though my dog gets pampered/treated pretty damn well!
I certainly didn't mean to offend anyone with that comment. I'm sorry if i did.

I relied on good ol' fashion disciplining to keep my kid in check :tu

As do I-and no amount of spanking, time outs, rewards or punishments will keep him from getting out of a crib, stroller, carseat, etc. I was the same way at his age and some children just are. So happy for you that your kids were easier, congrats!

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

THats exactly how I feel

I feel like I have repeated myself several times so I'm going to bow out of this one. I'll continue to do everything in my power to keep my little one safe, and kudos to you who can do it without help! :hugs

Ethan LOVES his monkey harness. He even walks around the house wearing it and gets all pissy when I try to take it off.

When your child's father is 6'4" and has to slouch/bend over in order to hold his 3' child's hand when walking, you've gotta "improvise" somehow.

Bryan holding Ethan's hand like that walking around where ever for a significant period of time will NOT work. I think my child wearing a monkey harness is MUCH better than my husband experiencing painful back problems!!!

If the child's content with it, then I do NOT see a problem!!!

I dont use them, dont have a problem with them. Just prefer not to leash my daughter.

As with so many other parenting issues (feeding- breast or bottle, co-sleeping or not, etc) this is just something that each person has to do what works for them and their child.
I never had a need for one, but if I had I would not have hesitated to use it.

They may also be good for parents who cannot lift(and hold for long periods of time) their child due to medical problems, but in a place that a stroller would not be suitable.

true that! lol. i remember i had a seasame street one, just around my wrist, when i was little. my mom had just had a back surgery and couldnt lift me at all.

Everyone has different means of parenting, bottom line!

I used one with Bruce -- it's a little doggy backpack and the tail is the "leash".

I was 8 months pregnant and flying up to OR with him by myself. I couldn't carry my luggage/carry-on's and hold his hand or push a stroller all at the same time and I didn't want him running off. He didn't mind it at all. While we were sitting in the terminal waiting for our flight he didn't have it on because I could keep an eye on him and run after him if I needed to. But it was a huge lifesaver when I was making a transfer and had to walk through the entire airport, and didn't have to carry him.

I don't compare those to dog leashes at all, and I think it's ridiculous that other people do. It's a way to keep your child close to you, and safe, if you can't hold their hand, for whatever reason.

I'd rather see a child on a leash(what a bad connotation that word has!) than an abused/neglected child. Leash or no leash, at least the parent cares (L)

As do I-and no amount of spanking, time outs, rewards or punishments will keep him from getting out of a crib, stroller, carseat, etc. I was the same way at his age and some children just are. So happy for you that your kids were easier, congrats!


I'm ecstatic as well :tu

I don't care what other people think of them they kept my child safe at six flags and on other mundane errands. They are very common in England I remember seeing lot of little ones with them on in crowded places. Obviously he does nto need one anymore. It is not a leash, and I was not treating my child like a dog by having it on him.

Tell it sister! :D

I LOVE them for my nephew. He's got a short attention span (as 3 yr olds are wont to do) and he'll take off running before you know who you are. Everytime he leaves the house, he asks his mom, "I can have my monkeypack mom please?"

I would never use one but thats just me

I'd rather see a child on a leash(what a bad connotation that word has!) than an abused/neglected child. Leash or no leash, at least the parent cares (L)

:yes My mom used it for my brother not a lot though. The main time she did it was when we were near a river and it was just a lot safer for him to be pretty much attached to her then him running off on his own. I really don't care either way and I do not see it as people treating their kids like dogs at all. I do not think of it as a bad thing and don't see why someone would. Everyone is different and each child is different what works for one family might not work for another.

i only remember my mom using it on my little bro when he was 2 and she had no. 3. it was too much for her to keep up with a 2 year old and a newborn at the same time. i was only 4 so i wasnt much help :giggle it was pretty much necessary for my lil bro. he sucked. anytime she would look to check on no. 3 hed take off.

heres my 2cents...

My ds loves his monkey. We dont treat him like a dog. And if it wernt for that monkey on his back i would have been a wreck! When i have not used the monkey i tend to loose him. not that im a bad parent but that he hides and does it well! I love the fact that they have nicer ones like the dog/monkey/bear. My mom used to put me in overalls all the time and sew a loop on the back and hook a dog leash to it. it kept me from running into the street. Like myself my son dosent listen. its not bad parenting its being cautious!!

I was actually told that i was told that this person respected for giving my son the opportunity to explore with giving myself and him the sense of security knowing we were on either end of each other! At first i was thinking they were being sarcastic cuz so many times i get the "dog on a leash" look. And what i have to say to that is F*** You! Live my life raise my child and se if for your sanity and his safety you dont use one!!

heres to all the mommies who put their kids in a harness!:tu

and to the mommies that dont have to...you one lucky chick!

because at a rodeo or state fair there are animals that weigh 100s of lbs and more people than at a typical mall setting. there are hazards that are naturally intriguing to a child/toddler. it's like look momma a cow and he runs to the cow, cow gets scared, knocks child over and steps on him and kills him. sure a fatal accident could happen at the mall or store but the chances of your child being stepped on by a cow or horse at a mall is much smaller

The chances of your child getting her hand, foot, leg, arm, etc mangled in an escalator are slim to none at a rodeo or state fair. So really, there are dangers EVERYWHERE, whether they're hidden or in plain view...

I used one with my youngest son. We used it when we'd go into really crowded situations. He was able to get out of strollers/carseats at about 18 months. He was also a runner and also has autism......so when he'd take off he became an entirely different person. I remember when I saw them with my first son I thought they were terrible and that I would never have to use them......having my second son completely changed alot of my views on what you do when you parent.

I say whatever works seriously......I know that leash saved me from having my youngest dash out on Kalakaua in Waikiki and for those of you who have been down there you KNOW how insane that place is.

I use one with my neice a lot of the time. at 2 1/2 she is not happy with staying in her stroller, and if I put her and her 6 month old brother in the shopping cart there is no space for groceries normally. She's very stubborn, and her parents and I are always trying to get her to stay with us but she runs and hides faster than we can get to her. Even if we take off the second she disappears, she still gets away from us. So, in order to keep her safe, we use the monkey backpack.

To each their own. That's what it really comes down to.

Some people will just never understand what it is like unless they have a child that can be so difficult. I have 2 that were great...one that wasn't...My parenting was the same. I think statements like these can be so offensive to so many people. You can teach the hell out of a kid something, doesn't mean it's always gonna stick. What ever happened to don't judge a person unless you have walked in their shoes. And how is doing something you think is safe for your child taking the easy way out?

I know what it's like - we have 5 children and they're no peaches and cream. :)
It was just my opinion...I don't think lesser of parents who do use them - my sister uses one for her son - but, me, personally, the idea seemed like the easy way out.
Though my 2 years of store-abstinance was one heck a crappy alternative :) LOL!!

I use one on my daugther. She is a runner and i can chace her all day and still not catch her. Not only that I have a little one that isnt even crawling so its a lil hard to always chace her. And as for treating her like a dog at least she wont run in the road and get hit like one. and my DS loves to have her backpack with leash on.

Well I have read through all 12 pages of this and 1st I want to say one- those of you who havent found the need to use one, You are very lucky and have FAR more patients than I do! 2nd Those of you who have had to use one know what a life saver they can be especially when you have 2 or 3 or more kids. In my opinion these leashes/harnesses are no different than any other device used to keep our kids where we want them. When they are in a stroller, they are restrained. At least with the harness, it is teaching them in a healthy way to stay close.(meaning I dont have to run after and spank my child every 2 secs when he/she gets curious, which we all know how curious their litle minds can be.) NOw I am NOT saying you have to use them or you are a bad parent if you dont but really what is the difference of how you restrain them, whether its a harness or a stroller when they are 4 years old....either way you are still restraining them. It seems to me we are all trying to do what is best for our children and our families and people use different tools to do so.

I would rather use a leash than Eli get away from me. I havent used one but if I felt like I needed it I would. My child's safety is more important than what someone thinks of me.

DH is on a show this weekend so I had to wait for his call last night about this. He said absolutely not. He didn't want our daughter on a leash. So I'll just make him deal with her at the mall and stuff when she wants out of her stroller and tries to run away. :)

I use one for my son.

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

When I see people using those it bothers me. They are children not dogs. There are more appropriate ways to keep your children with you and safe than using those.

In the case of a mentally hanidcapped child I feel a little different about them... If the child simple cannot understand because they are mentally retarded or something of that nature then using that to keep them safe is alright I suppose, but that's really the only good reason I could see for using those.


ETA: I have 3 children 5 year old and under. I go out with them alone.. not once has any one of them wondered or ran away from me. Part of being a parent is supervising your children.

No you are in no way bad parents. Mine just always stayed where i told them to. Of course they knew they would get spanked for not listening.

Sorry...but just because I never used a harness because I feel they make children look like dogs does not mean I was not keeping my kids SAFE when they were little. My children NEVER ran wild, and I always kept them within arms length. Must have done something right because they are both still here. :puzz

:dunno..I personally would never use one...I think it is better to just keep an eye on your child, teach them to stay near you, and to hold there hand. If my son is so out of control where he wont stay near me then he will go in a stroller or a cart until he is old enough to handle it.

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

I relied on good ol' fashion disciplining to keep my kid in check :tu


I agree with all of this.
Most toddlers are hyper active, run around crazy, can get out of a stroller etc. So just because I never had to use one doesnt mean I had a perfect angel on my hands :wink

Personally, I think they're ridiculous. I would never put my child on a leash - she is not a dog.

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

I agree..they are not dogs and should not have to wear leashes to walk around in. In Brasil they dont have anything like this so when I got here and started looking around and seeing kids with leashes I was horrified. I know that it keeps them safe or whatever, but I think that there is a better way to protect our kids and not make them look like dogs..I absolutely hate these leashes!!!!!!!!!

I used a cute monkey one on my son when he was like 18 mos. old and we went to the zoo. I didn't get any bad looks. That was pretty much the only time we used it. To each their own. Do what works best for your family.

well my personal opinion is that I have never had to use one but if I had to I would. I dont see it like you are treating them like dogs.

I just think that no matter how much discipline you use to get your child to listen not all children are gonna listen and some of us have very hyper kids that will just dart out into the street or a crowd without even thinking and even if you told them to get back here or whatever you do some are not going to listen and some are. So I dont judge anyone who decides to use one. Like I said we havent had to use one. when we go to the malls we either take Robbies stroller or he can walk and stay beside us but if he were younger like when he was 2 I probably would have bought one.

You moms who use them dont feel bad because you are doing whats right for your kids.

For the moms who dont use them you are fortunate that your discipline methods work and that your kids listen and stay put..

What if dogs weren't the first animal to have a leash... what if kids were and leashes werent even thought of as a dog thing. Right now leashes are associated with dogs but would it really be that bad if dogs never even used them. I still don't understand how people are thinking people are treating their kids like dogs. It's not like they are making their kids get down on all fours and running around lol. I know we all have different opinions on it and I don't care either way but when some of you talk about people who use leashes it really sounds like they are bad parents and you are horrified that anyone would do such a thing to a child.

Why do some people think it's okay at a rodeo or on a side of a cliff, but not at a store? I don't understand what the big deal is... it's just an added measure of safety for the child. Jessica said it best that it works for some families and doesn't work for others, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

As for comparing it to a dog... well do you not pat your child on the head when he does well? Do you not tell your child to "sit" when he is standing on the couches? I think that the dog comparison is ridiculous.

And not to mention, you don't always know the situation. How can someone distinguish a special needs child from another child? What if the child has severe ADD? What if the parent has had a child kidnapped before or had it happen to someone in their close family and they are very protective? What if it's someone babysitting who is not used to watching toddlers? I think it's ridiculous to insinuate that it's bad parenting because the parent is taking an EXTRA security measure.

And for the record, we have one, and we used it at Disneyland last weekend. Riley was happy as a clam in it too! :tu

Well, I have one and when need be, I use it. My son is a runner and I can't leave my baby to go running after him. Once at iHOP an old man asked me if I wanted his dog leash.. I laughed and said "if my son is safe, then I will do whatever I have to do" it really irritated the hell out of me because MY SON IS NOT TREATED LIKE A DOG...but it is my responsibility to protect him and that is what I am doing.. and if I didn't have one of those and I ran after him SOMEONE would just have something to say about me leaving J alone to run after or if he got hurt then someone would have something to say about that. It's a lose lose situation with some people. I am comfortable and it doesn't hurt my son, he's safe and that's all I care about.

Why do some people think it's okay at a rodeo or on a side of a cliff, but not at a store? I don't understand what the big deal is... it's just an added measure of safety for the child. Jessica said it best that it works for some families and doesn't work for others, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

As for comparing it to a dog... well do you not pat your child on the head when he does well? Do you not tell your child to "sit" when he is standing on the couches? I think that the dog comparison is ridiculous.

And not to mention, you don't always know the situation. How can someone distinguish a special needs child from another child? What if the child has severe ADD? What if the parent has had a child kidnapped before or had it happen to someone in their close family and they are very protective? What if it's someone babysitting who is not used to watching toddlers? I think it's ridiculous to insinuate that it's bad parenting because the parent is taking an EXTRA security measure.

And for the record, we have one, and we used it at Disneyland last weekend. Riley was happy as a clam in it too! :tu



very well put Trey. we have a child with ADHD but so far he hasnt done anything like that but when we are in a big crowd he is either in a stroller or holding our hand. but if it ever came down to where he was running off alot specially when he was alot younger you can better believe we would have gotten one for him.

Why do some people think it's okay at a rodeo or on a side of a cliff, but not at a store? I don't understand what the big deal is... it's just an added measure of safety for the child. Jessica said it best that it works for some families and doesn't work for others, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

As for comparing it to a dog... well do you not pat your child on the head when he does well? Do you not tell your child to "sit" when he is standing on the couches? I think that the dog comparison is ridiculous.

And not to mention, you don't always know the situation. How can someone distinguish a special needs child from another child? What if the child has severe ADD? What if the parent has had a child kidnapped before or had it happen to someone in their close family and they are very protective? What if it's someone babysitting who is not used to watching toddlers? I think it's ridiculous to insinuate that it's bad parenting because the parent is taking an EXTRA security measure.

And for the record, we have one, and we used it at Disneyland last weekend. Riley was happy as a clam in it too! :tu


:thumbsup Well put thank you :)

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

I don't think that putting them on this "leash" is a substitute for teaching them to listen. Sorry to knock ANYONE but SOMETIMES CHILDREN DONT LISTEN either way. and isn't it better to have them safe than sorry???

Why do some people think it's okay at a rodeo or on a side of a cliff, but not at a store? I don't understand what the big deal is... it's just an added measure of safety for the child. Jessica said it best that it works for some families and doesn't work for others, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

As for comparing it to a dog... well do you not pat your child on the head when he does well? Do you not tell your child to "sit" when he is standing on the couches? I think that the dog comparison is ridiculous.

And not to mention, you don't always know the situation. How can someone distinguish a special needs child from another child? What if the child has severe ADD? What if the parent has had a child kidnapped before or had it happen to someone in their close family and they are very protective? What if it's someone babysitting who is not used to watching toddlers? I think it's ridiculous to insinuate that it's bad parenting because the parent is taking an EXTRA security measure.

And for the record, we have one, and we used it at Disneyland last weekend. Riley was happy as a clam in it too! :tu

i agree with you. i personally wouldn't use it ALL the time but you are right there are very different situations for everyone

Why do some people think it's okay at a rodeo or on a side of a cliff, but not at a store? I don't understand what the big deal is... it's just an added measure of safety for the child. Jessica said it best that it works for some families and doesn't work for others, there is no right or wrong way to go about it.

As for comparing it to a dog... well do you not pat your child on the head when he does well? Do you not tell your child to "sit" when he is standing on the couches? I think that the dog comparison is ridiculous.

And not to mention, you don't always know the situation. How can someone distinguish a special needs child from another child? What if the child has severe ADD? What if the parent has had a child kidnapped before or had it happen to someone in their close family and they are very protective? What if it's someone babysitting who is not used to watching toddlers? I think it's ridiculous to insinuate that it's bad parenting because the parent is taking an EXTRA security measure.

And for the record, we have one, and we used it at Disneyland last weekend. Riley was happy as a clam in it too! :tu

:thumbsup

I never used them with my kids, and I used to think they looked funny, but I didn't really give it much thought...until I saw this little girl who, I swear, was 100% impulse going from attraction to attraction and person to person at this place for kids. There would have been no way for this little girl to be that free AND be with her mom without it. I realized some kids just need 'em. No you don't need to go yanking at them so they fly backward, but you do have to always be paying attention to what's ahead of them so you can shorten their walk ahead of you. This mom was doing it so effortlessly. It was really cool to see.

My son needed it until the age of 2. We haven't used it lately though. He loved to walk around in it. He was so proud of it and loved to "hold the tail" himself.

I am going to get nailed for this. I know I am.

If a dog needed to be restrained, wouldn't that be bad training? Just like a child, sometimes a dog doesn't listen and it is in its nature to run. A child is going to test his boundries too.

I am going to continue to look at safety first...looks last.

I have absolutely no problem with parents who want to use the harnesses, whatever works to keep their kids safe. I use a backpack for Lydi when we go someplace like the library because she doesn't like the stroller as much as she used to and sometimes it's inconvenient to use.

We are going to be going to Disney World for Lydi's 2nd birthday in a few months, I might invest in a harness if she's too big for the backpack by then. I'd rather her be safe in an area like that than wander off or snatched up by someone unknown (and yes, I do keep a good eye on her but she's a mobile kid, I'll do what I have to to keep her safe).

I used this kind with my ODS
http://xcf.xanga.com/941c167401533144868451/s107262089.jpg
I got it at Target

http://xd7.xanga.com/eb6c3274c1535144868448/s107262086.jpg
My ODS was a runner. Rather then him get lost or hit by a car in the parking lot I put his back pack on him. I always got compliments because I don't think people really knew what it was. It didn't look like the plain harness (which my kid would not wear)

When I was pregnant with my YDS I was alone I could not chase him down and he needed to learn how to walk with me. Now he does so nicely he either holds the stroller handle if I have the stroller or he holds my hand if the baby is in the sling.

I don't care what other people think of them they kept my child safe at six flags and on other mundane errands. They are very common in England I remember seeing lot of little ones with them on in crowded places. Obviously he does nto need one anymore. It is not a leash, and I was not treating my child like a dog by having it on him.


If I had children I would use one like this. ITA with you- it does not mean you are treating them like dogs.

I have never used one but that also b/c I have always been right behind her.... she is just getting to fast for me.....


we are heading to the grand canyon in a few days.... and I am 100 % ben having nightmares and anxity attacks at night b/c I am scared she is going to go over the cliff... I konw its stupid but still ....


so I plan to use one for the first, last , and only time in her life when we go there !

Amen to you too. It amazes me to see people equate putting a safety harness on your child with treating them like a dog. I guess wanting your children to not get hit by a car or stolen from you in a crowd is treating them like a dog? At least they are trying to keep their kids SAFE. It may not be the same way everyone else does it, but that is the purpose of the harnesses. Better than the parents who let their kids run wild where ever they go. It seems like you can't win no matter what you do sometimes, even if you are doing something responsible like keep your child within arms length. I guess using a piece of material makes that intention somehow wrong? I seriously don't get it...

:yes :yes :yes :yes

I haven't used one but I don't think there is anything bad about them at all. In fact, I've seen them many times and I always think to myself "that parent really cares about their child's safety". I'd never equate them to being anything like a dog's leash.

I guess if you want to go there with the leash, you could also say that parents who use cribs are treating their child like a baboon. I mean, it IS like a cage, isn't it? I think it's just silly to equate a safety back pack to a dog's leash. It's a safety measure just like having an infant in a crib.

I think they are ADORABLE!

What if dogs weren't the first animal to have a leash... what if kids were and leashes werent even thought of as a dog thing. Right now leashes are associated with dogs but would it really be that bad if dogs never even used them. I still don't understand how people are thinking people are treating their kids like dogs. It's not like they are making their kids get down on all fours and running around lol. I know we all have different opinions on it and I don't care either way but when some of you talk about people who use leashes it really sounds like they are bad parents and you are horrified that anyone would do such a thing to a child.

I was just about to say this. :D

I guess if you want to go there with the leash, you could also say that parents who use cribs are treating their child like a baboon. I mean, it IS like a cage, isn't it? I think it's just silly to equate a safety back pack to a dog's leash. It's a safety measure just like having an infant in a crib.



That's exactly the point I was trying to make... I totally agree!

And look at this little chicken butt! He loves it and certainly doesn't look like a dog! (Even though that's what animal the backpack happens to be :hehe)
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b114/TreyWaddell/Riley/P1010127.jpg

We use the monkey one as well and let me tell you, in the airport it saved my ass. In parking lots it saves HIS ass. He doesn't want to be carried, he wants to do things for himself. Sitting in the cart all the time incites tantrums of epic proportions because he wants to be able to walk around like everyone else. I use the monkey as a backpack more than a leash, but when he starts to take off and ignore me, it does the trick.

All people are different and kids are people too. It works for some, doesn't for others, and like anything else as far as parenting goes people are judgemental of methods that they themselves do not employ. It's a great tool because I guarantee you that it saves at least one kid every day. That's well worth the stigma of "treating them like dogs" IMO.

If my kid jerked my hand off long enough to run into the path of an oncoming car and got hit people would say "well she should have been holding him, should have been holding his hand, should have should have should have." At least the child on the leash is not running rampant, not getting picked up by a pedophile and raped, maimed and thrown in a dumpster. That's all that matters. It only takes a split second and I am paranoid to the point that I would rather have him on a harness than risk that spilt second ever happening.

You know, I didn't mean to ruffle so many damn feathers when I said I wouldn't use one on my child - because she is not a dog.

I can't help it if I see a person walking their kid and it reminds me of walking their dog. I've always just seen it that way. People want their kids to be safe, GREAT! More power to them! I said I wasn't judging anyone - and I am still not. Some kids need to be (or their parents are more comfortable if they are) tethered. That's fine, for them. Lucky for me, my child isn't one to go hauling ass across a parking lot. Kid tethers, harnesses, leashes, whatever the heck you want to call them, just aren't for me.

Between my opinion on this subject and my opinion on same sex marriages, seems everyone has one reason or another to be pissed off at Becca.





(Who, I might add, is extremely bitchy and hormonal, and already had one relatively good sized blowout with her husband today, which never happens. So, consider the source).

Oh, and Trey, Riley is beautiful.

OH - and one more thing.

If you all could overlook my cynicism this evening, I'd really appreciate it. I'm sure I'll be back to my normal, peppy, optimistic cheerful self when the sun comes up tomorrow. Heaven help us if I'm not.

I don't use them often, but my daughter is 22 months old and a couple weeks ago we were in a busy airport (hartsfield jackson Atlanta) and I used one on her just in case she tried to make a breat for it... it worked out great and it helped on the airplane as well since she was a lap child. I was able to allow her to stand at times and not have to worry about her running up the aisle. I would use it again if we go someplace crowded and don't feel like breaking out the stroller.

:lol only 170 more days to go Becca. But yeah, it did sound judgemental the way you put it. :)

Yup! I have one(it looks like a cute little monkey, and it's a backpack with the leash attached). DS LOVES it. I've only used it once, at the state fair-not a good place for a two year old to dart into a crowd!

I had the exact same one with Jerron. He loves his "monkey tail" as he called it :lol It helped his Grandma at the airport alot and also at the fair and at the mall

:lol only 170 more days to go Becca. But yeah, it did sound judgemental the way you put it. :)

Totally didn't mean to come off that way, and I'm sorry if it did. I was concerned that it might, which is actually the primary reason I said:

I'm NOT judging or putting down anyone that has them or uses them, they just are not something that I personally could or would ever use. :dunno

Wasn't just you anyway though. I'm sure you didn't mean to offend anyone. To me, when someone says they would not do something because of XYZ, it means they think DOING that is saying XYZ. Otherwise you'd just say, "I don't use that method." and leave it at that.

Wasn't just you anyway though. I'm sure you didn't mean to offend anyone. To me, when someone says they would not do something because of XYZ, it means they think DOING that is saying XYZ. Otherwise you'd just say, "I don't use that method." and leave it at that.

I guess that would be a valid point. It WAS an insinuation on my part. I said I don't use it on DD because she is not a dog. That insinuated that everyone that uses one believes their child is a dog. Basic psychology.

Soooo not what I should have said. I should have just said "I always think it looks like they're walking a dog - that just turns me off". Or something. Or maybe I just should have said nothing. I suppose the fact that I said they were "ridiculous" was a tad excessive as well.

Oh lawdy. Here I go, analyzing my own posts. I can't make that a habit though or I'll never say anything at all :rofl

Anyhow - carry on. I just didn't mean to offend anyone. :)

:lol It's the preggo brain! :scared

No you are in no way bad parents. Mine just always stayed where i told them to. Of course they knew they would get spanked for not listening.

my dd gets her ass handed to her almost daily. She cries and listens at the moment. Then goes back to being two. YOU were lucky.

:dunno..I personally would never use one...I think it is better to just keep an eye on your child, teach them to stay near you, and to hold there hand. If my son is so out of control where he wont stay near me then he will go in a stroller or a cart until he is old enough to handle it.

I swear they become a different species when they turn two. Some days my dd stays put, holds onto the shopping cart/stroller/my hand. Other days its ONLY walking, other days its walking but not holding my hand, and others its screaming cause she's walking, then screaming cause she is in the stroller, then screaming cause I'm holding her, someone gets pinched, someone cries, and then whatever errand I'm trying to accomplish must be halted. :no If a harness with her "teddy" on her back keeps her trap shut long enough for me to get some toilet paper and milk and some damn maxi pads, you bet your ass I'm gonna use one. Give me looks all you want. Tell me my child is not a dog, I'll agree she's not a dog...she's a savage! I love her and she's a good kid. Her only problem? She's two. Maybe not everyone has had to deal with a two year old like MINE. You're lucky. But I'm not a bad parent for doing what I need to do. Some days she listens, some days she doesnt. I just stay consistent and hope some day it gets better. It just CANT get any worse...

Being a parent is not meant to be easy, it's not always fun and it sure as hell drains your energy and time - and leashing your child up instead of teaching them how to listen well is just taking the easy way out.

:wow I'll just say, you dont know a thing about me or what I'm doing as a parent...

:wow I'll just say, you dont know a thing about me or what I'm doing as a parent...

From what I understand she does not have chilren let alone toddlers either.

I just want to clear up... I do not use the "leash" rather than her holding my hand. I have her hold my hand, but also have her harness on, just in case she does the "quick slip" move and trys to run off...she can't get too far. I use it as a safeguard rather than an alternative to making her mind. I think this is what they are meant for.

Personally I think all parents should use choke chains on their children. :rofl jk obviously but since theyre being treated like dogs anyway you may as well. Heck while I'm at it I should just put my son in the back yard with a bowl of water and let him go.

my dd gets her ass handed to her almost daily. She cries and listens at the moment. Then goes back to being two. YOU were lucky.

Mine were a lot easier at 2 than they are now at 10 and 11. I was lucky. They always listened. I never had a problem with that. If using the harness works for you thats great. If I ever have a child that doesnt listen as well and I take them to Disney I would consider using a harness. I would not use it in a store or a mall.

If it means keeping my kids safe in a crowded place, I would use one in a heart beat!!!

Personally I think all parents should use choke chains on their children. :rofl jk obviously but since theyre being treated like dogs anyway you may as well. Heck while I'm at it I should just put my son in the back yard with a bowl of water and let him go.

Sometimes I think it should be those collers with the spikes in them or a shock stick. :D I am just kidding.

Yesterday my son would not hold my hand at all and tore off for the street. just about didn't get him. Those are the days you dread. My child's safety is still more important.

I don't have kids, and I haven't read all of the other responses, but I think it's safe to say I will not be using one on my kids, then again I've always lived in pretty average cities (90,000 or so people, real small) if I were to live in New york or something like that, then I *might* consider it, if we were someplace crowded or something, and that is a big might.

Wow. I didn't know this would get THIS many responses.

Before I had kids, I always said I'd never use one. I was completely against them.

But as DD wants to get more and more independent and defiant, it's looking more and more like a good idea. Oh, and I do try to teach her and she does get disciplined (MIL thinks I discipline her too much actually instead of "letting her be a kid" and get away with stuff). And I try to teach her out in public and will cut trips short if she's being too defiant. But it's a huge struggle trying to get things done and keep her safe and not screaming everywhere. There are days she will hold onto the cart/stroller/my hand the whole time and be perfectly behaved, so she knows what to do. But there are other days where she's not in the mood to do what she's supposed to instead of what she wants to do and it's those days it'd be nice to have an extra tool to keep us both happy and her safe.

Personally, I'm still on the fence about it and am not sure if I want to try to talk DH into getting one or not (right now he's completely against them)-especially since we're going to Disney World for Thanksgiving and we had such a hard time with her at Universal in June in the lines after we had to "park" the stroller. And those lines were pretty short (longest one we waited in with her was like 1/2 hour-that's it). She wanted to explore and didn't want to be held the whole time or hold our hands...So, I still don't know...

I hate that reference...just because dogs use leashes....does not mean we are treating our children like dogs by using a similar(but not the same) item to keep them safe.

:agree

Hehe I thought of this thread today when DH and I were at San Antonio zoo and we saw a child with one. :lol

Getting into this late, but...

I always thought they were really silly things before having children, honestly. I thought, who would use those, just discipline the child already, jeez. Then I had WADE. :lol Anyway, I broke my rib, my DH is deployed, and I also have a baby. How do I haul around a baby AND a defiant toddler with a broken rib all by myself? Well, those harnesses come in really handy lemme tell ya. And Wade LOVED his puppy backpack so much, that after my rib healed, he still wanted to wear it. So, I still let him wear it sometimes (when he asks to) and hand him the leash dealy. If he starts to run off, it's there for the grabbing. Quite handy if you ask me.

So anyway, seeing as my child loves his backpack, I don't see a single thing wrong with them. I thought they were weird before having kids but now I think of them as purely practical and when it comes to safety, especially when carting my kids around in a crowded place or in a parking lot, they can be very smart.

LOL

Ok - after reading the reasons why some people use them my view is now "only if you have to."

LOL

Ok - after reading the reasons why some people use them my view is now "only if you have to."

:lmao See? Different perspectives are a value. :D