Walking/reins/free range/holding hands

[cheekypickle]

Okay so not really an AIBU but need quick advice.

At what age if ever did you use reins? I have DD who is 14months who I would love to get out of pram at times

What did you do?

We used backpack reins from about 1 yr until 2/2.5yrs. I found them to be safer than holding hands as couldn't pull away so easily and gave them a little bit more autonomy to explore, especially if you are standing around for some reason. At 1 yr the backpack was really too big for my DCs and somewhat awkward. Now at 3.5 they take the backpack to nursery with spare clothes and a snack in, but we haven't used the reins in a year.

I had a relative say she hated reins because you put them on dogs - I said I would feed a dog too but it didn't mean it was wrong to feed my children. Mainly though people say "ooh how clever" or similar.

Sunshine yes you can. And there are other companies that do backpack style reins too. Just have a google.

We use reigns with dd had a few protests when we first put them on (around 15 months) but she got used to them pretty quick. We also get her to hold hands when on the pavement near a road etc to get used to doing so.

If we are going somewhere where dd could be in and out if the pushchair they go on before we leave and stay on pretty much all day, we take the back strap off or tuck it under when she doesnt need holding on to. No faffing. We use clippasafe from the local chemist but can get theese in boots or amazon about £6-£7.

As soon as DD could walk independently. If you use them straight away your child will be used to them as the norm.

Reins!!