Was thinking about a toddler harness for my 2 yr old who likes to run run run....?

Question

but I am afraid of the public scorn. Is it better just to keep her in the stroller and let her out to push it every now and then?

I should add... for all those who say how INHUMANE it is to harness a toddler, isnt it just as bad to have them strapped up in a cart/stroller etc not getting any exercise ? Or better yet... how about disappearing?

Glad to see some favourable replies, thanks !

Answer 1

Im fine with it, actually suprised to hear that someone would say INHUMANE, but you hear a lot of weird stuff on here. I agree its the same thing as a stroller strap.

My only concern is, for example we've super baby proofed our house, so with nothing to get into, how does a child learn discipline. Id say the same would go for the harness at some point. But its like baby proofing, we dont leave out sharp knives, but maybe a butter one, you can say "dont touch" at. So if you're at a carnival or airpot, with lots of people, then the strap may be in order. But if youre walking to the park, on a not busy street, maybe go without.

Answer 2

I am a proponent to harnesses even though it does still seem like there is much social stigma to it. If you have a runner the safest bet is to keep him/her strapped in the stroller. You will find though that letting them push the stroller, especially in stores, might be even more of a problem as they bump into everything and usually don't want to give the control back.

Second option is to yes, use a harness but to avoid the stares from those ignorant to the concept, try one that looks like a back pack. They are cute, they have a teddy bear one, cow one, etc. And the child will enjoy putting it on. They are much less noticeable than the traditional harnesses. Kustom Memories has them, calls them 2 in 1 harness buddy. You can probably find them other places too.

I would only recommend using them in places that your child could get into trouble though or a crowded place. If you are in an open place, like a playground or field, it would be better to let them really explore without it.

Answer 3

Mommy its all up to u !!!
If u feel ur baby will be safer with a harness , go ahead and get it. Its better to be safe that to have mishapps and accidents. My 16 month old is the same way too but what I do is I keep her in a stroller while I am shopping or whenever I cannot attend fully to her . Later on when I have my hands free I let her out and let her enjoy herself.For exercise I take her out every single day and let her run around in a place where it is safe for her and offcourse I neeed to keep an eye on her every second.
All the best

Answer 4

I just asked the same question on here a few days ago and I got mixed responses you just have to do what you feel comfortable with there's always someone that has a problem with anything you do. I am thinking about getting one for my 19 month old as well she took off on me in sears the other day and it was the scariest experience of my life. I think it's almost the same thing as strapping your child into a stroller. At least this way they are getting exercise and they like to obviously walk because they are just discovering everything in there world.

Answer 5

Go for it! Just ignore any looks. I guarantee you, anyone that gives you a look or says its inhumane on here, either don't have kids, only have one kid, or have kids with large age gaps. I agree with you 100% - harnesses and strollers serve the same purpose for a child once they can walk - to restrain a child. And personally I think the harness is better, because it allows the child to get some exercise, something that kids are in dire need of in today's society. Good luck!

Answer 6

i see nothing wrong with a harness in a society where children can be snatched up in the blink of an eye. the world is not a safe place. anyone who criticizes obviously doesn't realize all of the hazards out there in the world. running free can happen in your own backyard, etc.

don't let other people get to you. keep your kids safe, no matter what. when we were camping we had my toddler on a lead tied to the picnic table... so she wouldn't fall in the fire or go wandering off in the woods... ofcourse we were right there the whole time, but a little tumble can happen instantly...

Answer 7

I agree with you...there are dodgy people wandering around in all the right place for us Mothers so you do have to keep them close. We didn't like the idea of the harness so we went straight onto the wrist strap, gives them a bit of responsibility but still can't disappear, plus it encourages them to hold your hand and you still have that extra just in case they think of a little explore.

Answer 8

People who think they are so terrible have obviously never had a heart wrenching moment where they are having a hard time catching up to their child! Or, heaven forbid, a moment where you can't see them anymore. Children are quite agile, and quick, and I say that if you want to use a harness, then by God, you use a harness. I would rather put up with a few stares or negativity, then to have my child nabbed right out from under me! Best of luck to you!

Answer 9

I had one for my son, who was extremely active and prone to disappearing in a heartbeat and turned a deaf ear to my pleas to return. I mostly used it in crowded areas where there was a real danger of my losing him. You would be surprised by the number of approving comments I got, mostly from other mothers of young children trying desperately to keep them at their side. There were of course probably those who disapproved, but let them think what they want. If my attention had to be turned away from my child for a moment, I KNEW he was safe, an not in the grasp of a stranger or halfway across a busy street.

Answer 10

I think it's a great idea. The toddler has a little freedom, can run a little, and you don't have to worry about her running away. I've never understood why the public looks down on this.