Toddler running off

[User24689]

Hi all, my DD is 22 months and has in the last few weeks started taking off running when we're out, with no warning, she's never really liked holding hands but even if she is holding hands she will suddenly let go and run.

Obviously we then chase after her - if she looks around and sees us coming she will laugh and change direction, picking up speed - it's a game to her.

We have tried reins a couple of times but the moment she feels them on she becomes really upset and refuses to walk.

We have calmly explained that running results in being carried, she will say 'yes' she understands but then will repeat the same behaviour.

Any advice?

I have a runner too, heart stopping isn't it. Mine has a love of escalators, particularly ones going in the wrong direction. I reckon reins are your best bet. What reins are you using?
We've had success with the backpack ones, although it was a hard sell to get it on and involved allowing ds to carry some biscuits in the backpack that he could eat at any time. He ate them straight away but still wore the backpack.

We've also had some success with ones that have a dinosaur face on them, although I believe they make other types. It has an accompanying song that we sing when we put them on.

Lastly there is the hand strap ones, which have a high-5 game when we use them.

We must look like loons but I don't lose him in shops anymore.

Thanks for your tips Running!

We have a little life backpack with reins attached. She quite likes the backpack and I love the idea of taking snacks in it thanks for that. The problem is that if we fix on the reins she just twists and turns to try and take the reins herself/ remove them, she won't just walk. She also doesn't like the chest clip being done up and without that it's pretty useless. All thia resistance is almost more frustrating than the prospect of her maybe running off, but perhaps we just need more practice around the house.

Haven't tried a wrist strap one, think she would struggle with that. Songs are a good idea, we got over a toothbrushing aversion with a song so worth a try! I don't care about looking like a loon!

The more I think about it the more I wonder if her reaction to things like this are normal... She hates feeling constrained in any way, doesn't like being strapped into anything. She also hates anything on her head - can't get her to wear a bike helmet for love nor money. She refuses hairbands and clips and sun hats take a lot of bribery.

You have to pick your battles ... and this is a battle to pick. Come up with some simple rules & reiterate them constantly and stick to them. If walking along the pavement, she has to be holding hands, on reins or in the pushchair as it isn't safe; as soon as you are somewhere safe (park perhaps), then she is given her freedom. Yes, there will be tantrums and screaming and journeys in the next few weeks/months will take longer but it will be worth it long term.

Yiu have to be really clear, if she wants to walk she wears reins or goes in the pushchair. You cannot let her get her own way, she has no idea of what the consequences may be.