"I have twin toddler boys who love running in opposite directions, finding it hilarious. It would be funny if I didn't have to chase them down constantly; when I chase one, the other runs away. I couldn't risk losing them in public, so I was stuck at home or had to confine them to strollers, which wasn't much better. Now, with leashes, they're like obedient little puppies. I don't mind the whispers or stares anymore—I finally have the freedom to take my boys out, and that's priceless."
"I prefer enduring the judgment of using a leash for my child over facing the consequences of a potential accident."
"I can't understand objections to leash harnesses. They make sense to me. My son, now 15, used to run off in shops, so I used one to keep him safe, and no one ever criticized me for it."
"My 13-month-old daughter just learned to walk and always wants to be on the move. When I'm alone, I can't manage the stroller and chase her. She doesn't understand safety and constantly runs off or picks up cigarette butts. I rely on a harness to keep her safe until she's old enough to understand."
"My autistic child loves to run and can easily outpace me. I'm getting a harness and leash to keep him safe. People should know when to offer help instead of being judgmental bystanders."
"It's a great idea for small children, especially in crowded places. I have grandchildren who can run very fast and might wander off. Your child's safety is the top priority here. Using a harness doesn't make you a bad parent—it shows your love and concern. Focus on what's best for your child, not others' opinions."
"My autistic son didn't respond to his name or stop requests and couldn't tolerate holding hands or sitting in shopping carts. A leash was the safest option for outings.
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Once, a stranger screamed at me in a store, frightening my son, but the leash gave him freedom and safety. Now older, he no longer needs it, but it was invaluable when he was younger.
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Leashes can provide essential safety for autistic children and parents with multiple kids. People should avoid judgment and mind their own business."
"With my anxiety, losing my child in places like malls, airports, or water parks would be overwhelming. That's why I use a leash to keep them safe in these environments."
"My son didn't need a leash; he listened and held our hands. In contrast, my independent daughter walks ahead and only holds hands for stairs. We use the backpack leash to keep her connected and safe in crowds, not to restrain her."