“You do realize that’s a child, not a pet, right?”
“Oh, thank you for that enlightening observation! I suppose that means puppy treats and sleeping in a crate are off the table? What about a shock collar?”
Seriously, folks, let’s just take a breather. No matter how a parent chooses to raise their kids, there’s always someone ready to chime in with their unsolicited opinions about how they should do it differently.
Maybe some parents have perfect children who never have that awkward phase between being too big for a stroller and lacking impulse control, but mine certainly do. When they see something interesting, they want to sprint after it without a second thought. Every one of my children has gone through that tricky transition where they crave independence but can’t quite listen to directions or hold hands in public.
Have you ever found yourself on a winter stroll, only to see your toddler dash toward the street, leaving you clutching their empty mitten? I have. Or how about managing two kids under four through an airport with no extra set of hands around? Yep, done that too.
I’d much rather have them in a harness than risk losing one of them. Call it practical parenting. Sure, we teach them to listen and hold hands, but I’m not willing to leave their safety solely in the hands of their young, impulsive minds.
Little ones are incredibly fast. Even the most vigilant parent can find themselves chasing after a running child. It’s in their nature to test boundaries, often sending their parents into mild panic. And even when kids start to develop some impulse control, there are always a few who remain spirited and determined to do things their way.
Using a child harness ensures they stay close and safe. Yes, there are parents who misuse them, but let’s be honest: those parents are the exception, not the norm. For a child who struggles to stay close, a harness can be a lifesaver. Plus, it allows them a bit more freedom to explore than just holding my hand.
Interestingly, my kids love their harnesses and often wear them long after the need has passed. They’re like little backpacks that they proudly don.
Here’s the Bottom Line
We can’t have it both ways. The internet goes wild when a child bolts into danger, and then it reacts just the same when it sees a child in a harness. No matter the parenting choice, someone is bound to have a strong opinion. So here’s a suggestion: you keep focusing on what’s best for your kids, and I’ll do the same for mine. Sound good?
For more insights on parenting, consider checking out this blog post. If you’re looking for more information on home insemination, Make A Mom is a great resource. And for pregnancy topics, Healthline offers excellent information on IVF and related subjects.
In summary, using a harness for my kids is a practical decision that prioritizes their safety while allowing them some freedom. Parenting is subjective, and what works for one family may not work for another. So let’s respect each other’s choices and focus on what truly matters—keeping our little ones safe.