A few weeks ago, I was reading an article about people criticizing a dad who was out with his children, and he had them all on leashes. The basis of the criticism was that they are not dogs or other animals, but human beings. I recall seeing parents with their small children in airports several years ago and thinking it was cringy. I didn’t understand the reason for the leash. They could have just used a stroller or carrier, held the child’s hand, or just picked them up.

I have had some time to reflect on this matter and I can honestly say that my perspective has changed. I fully understand that running around with kids in a crowded area, especially when they are too small to know any better, poses a significant safety issue. Younger children can easily run into a crowd and get lost, or even trampled. They may also run into traffic, or another dangerous area and it may be too late to stop them before you realize it. Children are sneaky and they move quickly. Don’t underestimate them!

The aforementioned ways to protect the child are good options, but what if you have multiple children, are holding multiple items (i.e. bags in an airport) or the children have some energy to burn? I’ve learned that children like to be out in the open and be able to run around. They like to have fun and feel a sense of freedom. Yes, there is a time and place for it, but if you have the opportunity, why not take it? The leash allows the child to run around, be less confined, be able to observe what is around them, and still maintain a sense of safety. I would be willing to bet that most kids would prefer the leash, over a stroller or carrier, simply because they are less restraining.

All that being said, I have changed my perspective on the child leash and think it’s actually a good idea, especially in crowded spaces. Many will see it as demeaning, and if you’re in that camp like I used to be, then consider what I discussed in this blog. Will you get strange looks and whispers behind your back? Probably. However, I think the leash is a great way to allow your child some freedom while also keeping them somewhat safe. For full disclosure, I do not have a child leash yet, but I am considering getting one to use on our future travels. Let me know what you guys think.