The dreaded backpack leash!

So, seriously considering getting one for my younger DS for when we go to Disney. He will be 2. He is a big wanderer now. He is ok in the stroller, but after a while he wants out. If DH isn't with me I won't let him out bc I already have to keep an eye on his older brother.
When he does go out he just walks everywhere. Never looks back to see where I am. The thought of him just walking away at Disney scares me. He gets distracted easily and will just go where he wants.
I don't want him confined the entire time, but I don't want him to run or walk off either.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

Bring it.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I used mine at the zoo a few weeks ago, it was perfect. She could get up close to the exhibits and I didn't have to worry about her bolting or carry her all day. The one thing I dodn't like is how "exposed" she is; people are oblivious and walked into her a few times and almost knocked ehr over.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I am very pro "leash" for kids that need it. The alternative is your child running away, nursemaids elbow, or a
whining child in a stroller.

The dreaded backpack leash!

Go for it! I see nothing wrong with them.

The dreaded backpack leash!

Bring it! I just came back from Disney and thought I would need it but I never used it. I also only have one DC and had 4 adults to keep up with her. Since you have 2 DC's I would just bring it. Peace of mind = Happy Time!

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

We used ours in Disney he last time we went. DS was 2 and it was definitely needed. I would have bought a new one if I didn't have it with me!!! A LOT of people were using them!

The dreaded backpack leash!

I learned that DS was a "runner" when we were in New Orleans last month. It was pretty scary to have him wriggle away and just take off. I say bring it.

The dreaded backpack leash!

Get it!

I have a backpack bear thingie and an Elmo she loves them and thinks the leash is kind of fun (like follow the leader) and they use a cord with rings at school to help smaller children move from one side of the school to the other and keep together so she thinks its all just part of a big game.

I dont use it since I have only one and never go to any type place like that without the hubby and maybe another. haha but that said, I absoLUTELY thing it is totally reasonable and BETTER than losing your child in a crowd. No one should EVER judge those leashes.. EVER. I know that I've seen some bad talk about them here and other place but I think they have a place and they make a LOT of sense!

Those who feel they shouldn't be used or judge those who use them just dont understand the reality of our lives. JMHO

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I was anti-leash with my oldest son who was definately a runner.

Now that I have 3 kids I bought a leash for my 2yo (middle child). We've used it once or twice in large crowd situations. I really don't care what people say anymore. I have 3 small children and I'd rather be safe than sorry. It is hard to keep an eye on them with just the two of us and I don't like to take chances. I don't use it in places like the park or the supermarket but in crowded places it is a lifesaver.

Do it!

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

Depends on the crowd level. We went when it was at a 3, and no way would you need that.

I've seen pics though of peak season, and I would use one

The dreaded backpack leash!

Anyone who doesn't like it just doesn't "get it" and they never will. I'll choose safety and peace of mind over ignorant people every time. :o) When ever we have used them with our wanderers I haven't seen any nasty looks. One girl did take a photo of them at the zoo though but mostly people have asked me where I bought them and said they needed one for their kid.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I have been making a game out of the twins wearing them in the house so that when we need them it is not a big deal. I would get one!!! my brother had one 30 years ago that my mom made him wear on the docks at the beach or any other dangerous setting. People would verbally judge my mom, I remember her saying "at least he will be alive to tell his shrink about it." lol

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

The dreaded backpack leash!

As the mom of a toddler I totally support a leash, i was never anti leash (though i would have a little chuckle to myself when I would see a kid on a leash lol) now as a mom I get it and will totally have one!

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

Get it, use it and don't feel bad about it! Never thought I'd use one, but gave me peace of mind at Dutch Wonderland. I'd rather people judge me than lose my baby in a crowd.

The dreaded backpack leash!

I'd get it. In fact, we are driving to NC in 3 weeks with our 2yo twins an our 10 month old. I plan on buying the leashes for when we have to stop at rest stops since I won't be bringing the double stroller.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

DS is 2 and a big runner. I was anti-leash until my mom (who watches DS 5 days a week) got it and both love it. In fact we are taking it on vaca next week.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I used one last year when my dd was two. She wanted to walk but didn't listen so the leash was perfect. I didnt care who looked at me. I know my child and she would have run. Safety always comes first!

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I used the leash with my son. I never knew it was so a heated debate. I remember being at the aquarium w/ ds on the backpack leash and three moms came over to ask where I got it. Safety is your number one concern not what people think.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I think if it works for you, then that's all that matters.

I'm not gonna lie...I cringe and chuckle when I see it...but that's also bc the comedy skit where katt williams talks about it enters my mind every time I see it.

It's not for me. I don't like the idea of using what I would use for an animal on my child. I think of generations before who never had it and managed fine. I also feel like I'd rather my child learn his boundaries and mine and I don't think leashing facilitates that. Plus some people think that a leash frees them from still needing to keep a close eye on their child and thats just not true. If I saw a mom yapping on her cellphone while walking in the street with leashed children...I'd probably judge...at disney, not so much.

Then again, I have yet to take my child to disney. I am taking him to sesame place this summer...ask me afterwards and my view might change!

I think that a lot of moms hit it o the head though that safety is number one and whatever you feel will help you accomplish that is fine in the name of keeping your child safe. Besides...it's not like you are leashing your child to play at a local park...it's for a big crowded park. Who knows...you might get there and find you don't even really need it. Being prepared is never a bad thing.

Message edited 6/12/2013 3:28:51 PM.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I would bring it although I would feel funny using it I think it is a smart thing to do. I have 2 very close in age and my2 year old is a runner. If I blink or sneeze he could disappear on me.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

Bring it! i totally support them! i was 15 when My younger brother was lost at fao Schwartz on thanksgiving day after the parade, he was found shortly after but I NEVER want to feel that way ever again. I swore that day Id never judge another person for using one.

Re: The dreaded backpack leash!

I am totally for it. I mean is it better to lose a child. My first used it perfectly in crowded parks. My little one....omg....she tantrums to the floor when it's on and I have to grab her with it like a hanging puppet. She's anti-leash...lol