Thoughts on Wrist or Body Harness for Toddler

C., I'm smiling and totally relating to you! You could be writing about my family. My first child (11yo) was always very cautious, mild, and for the most part rule observant. My husband and I missed out on many opportunities to hone our parenting skills because, frankly, they weren't required of us. Along comes number two...wham! She's almost 4 and has to experience everything and on her own terms. (Her scar collection is definitely greater than her older sister's.) We've had a few scary moments when we've lost her to the crowd. She shows no sign of concern when she can't see us- unlike number one who stayed pretty close. We purchased a packpack with a leash when we went to the Grand Canyon. I noticed a few disapproving looks... But I'm not treating my child like a pet, ma'am, I just don't want her to crawl out onto the ledge for a better view! LOL! I say the harness isn't a bad idea when you really need to keep her close. We got ours at Target. It's actually a hollow stuffed animal with a leash. Sometimes dd would insist on holding the leash herself, but for some reason, she stayed close when doing this. It's like she took responsibilty for keeping herself in line. Maybe...
Our "wild child" is a monumental challenge, but I'm so excited to know the bold, engaged, confident adult I know she will be. (if we survive to see it! hee hee) Good Luck with your little crazy one! It's tough and I'm sure you're doing a great job!

I found a very inexpensive "leash" for my daughter at Walmart. It is a backpack style that looks like a stuffed animal riding on her back, and the tail is the leash. It also has a tiny pocket in it to carry a cup or some wipes in it, which makes her feel like she's doing something helpful. She likes it, doesn't mind wearing it, and gives me peace of mind when we are in a busy place.

I looked at the wrist ones, but didn't like them. I thought they might hurt or worse when my little one would take off.

It is time for you to take a few minutes to let your children now who is in charge. If you dont put little Cassie in check you wont be able to stand her at 16. If poor little Claire lived in my house she wouldn't need a lease. I let my grand children know it is their duty to keep up with me not the other way around. There is a price to pay when they don't follow the rules.

I have used a wrist holder on my children, whom are now grown up and on their own, First and foremost they have suffered no psychological harm from it. LOL, and I explained to keep them safe from getting lost from Me I wanted to have them wear a wrist holder to keep track of Mommy. It seemed that since they thought they were keeping an eye on Mommy they were less offended to having it on. They would often remind me that it was time to wear the wrist holder when we were going out.
For the safety of your children and your own peace of mind, go for it aand don't be concerned about what others might think or say, As you are doing this for the well being of your children.
Best of luck,
Dorothy