Reins?

[kel1493]

We feel lo is ready to start doing some walking outside. So I wanted to ask about reins. What are the views on them? A necessity to ensure safety, or not really needed?
I think if we were to get some then I'd prefer the ones that look like a little rucksack (I'm not keen on any really, but safety always comes first). I've seen a few nice rucksack type ones for girls, but none I like for boys. Or are normal reins better?
Any suggestions?

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[Iamastonished]

There is currently a thread running here.

The general consensus is that you do what you can to keep your child safe, and ignore the idiots who won't use them because "they look stupid"

We used reins because we are both tall, and holding DD's hand was very uncomfortable for both her and us. We also lived on a country lane with no pavement.

[Justmadeperfectflapjacks]

My ds is 2.7 and loves his! The old fashioned navy ones!! Gives him more freedom than hand holding and doesn't feel like he is being dragged along!!

[namechange20050]

My 22 month old has the little life dinosaur back pack ones. They are great as my son won't hold hands and loves running off. You'll get some strange people commenting on MN that it's akin to child abuse though

[DontBuyANewMumCashmere]

My DD had/has the Gruffalo backpack. She loved it and got to choose what she wanted to take out with her. It was never a bother to get her out the door. I'm also tall as a PP said so it was less awkward to pull both our arms all the time
Several people commented very positively on the backpack and when out with her I saw several other backpacks and reins.
Also, fuck what other people think.

[SwimmingMom]

Don't care what people think. It keeps my 2.5 year old safe without breaking our backs and arms trying to hold her back. Go for it! And get it in early so your LO will consider it a part of going out. If you delay they might resist after some time (when you realise you can't do without it).

[corythatwas]

Agree with pp- it's a way of giving them more freedom.