Your opinions on...

Re: Your opinions on...

• redshoegirl member

  August 2010

  I know a lot of people don't approve of them, but I know one couple who uses one and I don't judge them at all - their little boy has a ton of energy and just won't stick around. A harness wasn't their first choice but it's not forever (they obviously still work on "You need to stay by Mommy and Daddy and hold our hands"), and it's better than the child running out into traffic or something. I'm sure there are people who would judge me for not judging them lol!
  

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• MrsNJSwimmer member

  August 2010

  I remember my mom using them when my brothers (twins) were little.  It was a lifesaver for when they were outside and just wanted to run around where you couldn't keep a safety zone.

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• MrsZiz member

  August 2010

  I HATE them! I have a friend that uses it with her LO and doesn't even try to teach her to stay by her or hold hands, I mean if you use it you should at minimum be teaching the kid some basic things like that. I understand why some people use them but I won't be one of those people. I personally think leashes are for dogs, not kids.. just my opinion!

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• redshoegirl member

  August 2010

  MrsZiz:

  I HATE them! I have a friend that uses it with her LO and doesn't even try to teach her to stay by her or hold hands, I mean if you use it you should at minimum be teaching the kid some basic things like that.

  Ahh see, this would bother me. The couple I know who use one still work a lot on trying to keep their child at their side - it's just a temporary safety measure to them, not a permanent solution.

  I know that MIL used one with Ben, but I kinda suspect she was a little more like the friend that you describe. 
  

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• lola808

  August 2010

  Now that I think about it, I feel pretty neutral about them, as long as they're used sparingly and for safety's sake. I don't think they necessarily inhibit a child's independence and I might actually feel more safe having the harness to keep my child nearby at places like ballparks, fairs and other crowded and noisy places. In my mind, it's somewhat similar to securing a mobile child in a stroller or in a carrier when they could otherwise walk on their own - i.e., restricting them a bit for safety or ease. All this probably depends a lot on your child's age and temperament, too. Some kids may never have a need if they naturally stick by their parents' sides, while others may be more inquisitive or adventurous.
  

  I could see how some parents might use it as a crutch and be lazy about teaching their child to follow rules and make good choices, though. I definitely wouldn't want to do that.
  

  

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• SanHawaii08 member

  August 2010

  lola808:

  Now that I think about it, I feel pretty neutral about them, as long as they're used sparingly and for safety's sake. I don't think they necessarily inhibit a child's independence and I might actually feel more safe having the harness to keep my child nearby at places like ballparks, fairs and other crowded and noisy places. In my mind, it's somewhat similar to securing a mobile child in a stroller or in a carrier when they could otherwise walk on their own - i.e., restricting them a bit for safety or ease. All this probably depends a lot on your child's age and temperament, too. Some kids may never have a need if they naturally stick by their parents' sides, while others may be more inquisitive or adventurous.
  

  I could see how some parents might use it as a crutch and be lazy about teaching their child to follow rules and make good choices, though. I definitely wouldn't want to do that.
  

  this, exactly!
  

  

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