by Donna Marie Gray

Created on: July 09, 2009

For a small child who is able to walk, using a toddler leash is a very good idea. Often toddlers want to explore while out with a parent. This gives them the ability to walk along without one arm being tugged on to keep the child in tow. Having a stroller handy is a good idea for when the child gets tired. But, the idea of seemingly freely walking, but still being guided by the parent is good exercise for the child, allows them to explore within short limits, and keeps the child content.

Some people view the use of toddler leashes as cruel and equal to treating the child like a dog. Obviously, these people don't have the on-going responsibility of caring for an active toddler. Society has dictated in recent generations that we must treat our children in a manner that caters to their every whim. We are guilted into falling in line with the ideas of the newest "child expert" of the moment. Parents are made to feel they have no right assuming they know what is best for their own child. New parents may lack experience in raising a child, but most of them have the confidence and the common sense to instinctively take excellent care of their child.

It is part of our responsibility to build confidence in our children. We are responsible for ensuring their safety whether at home or out in public. What better way to ensure that safety than the toddler harness with leash attached? This method is much better for the child than having them hanging by their arm from the hand of adult and being dragged around like a rag doll. Instead of allowing the child the experience of walking around and learning about new sights and making a shopping trip an enjoyable experience, we turn it into a tiresome and dreaded outing. By using the leash device, we remain in complete control of our child, ensuring safety while the child enjoys the feeling of independent exploring within the limits of the leash.

The very idea that anyone would consider it cruel to use the toddler leash is an indication that person has some serious issues regarding parenthood. For those who do use the leash, you are to be commended for taking the responsibility of protecting your toddler in a way that can bring a lot of enjoyment to an outing with a small child. Trying to carry a toddler around is tiring at best, and uncomfortable for both the parent and the child. It can turn an exciting adventure into a nightmare instead of a learning experience.

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