"After we become parents, sometimes it can feel like non-parents are from another planet entirely. Even when we’re in the same spaces, they’re having an entirely different dining experience, outing, or trip to Target. Needless to say, things change after becoming parents.
One TikTok makes this point abundantly clear. The hot take? Using a toddler leash. The concept is exactly how it sounds, and creator @amberhenryy explains that each time she leaves the house with her toddler girl, she puts on a leash that attaches to her wrist. To her, the peace of mind she receives knowing her daughter can never stray from her is worth the whispers she receives from onlookers.
Like many hot-take-style TikTok videos, this one garnered lots of comments. That’s why we had to dive into the concept and see what it’s all about.
The Case for Toddler Leashes
Though Henry’s video is a quick 30 seconds, the response she received speaks volumes. She opens by explaining how every time she’s out about with her daughter donning a toddler leash that looks like adorable wings on her back, she’s stopped by other parents asking her where she got it. The feedback she receives isn’t all positive, though. She also explains that she always notices a few whispers of judgment from people who don’t have kids with them. Thus, the great divide.
Perhaps the most iconic, mic-drop moment of the video is Henry’s response to the judgmental whispers. When she hears, “She has her kid on a leash” from others, her response is, “My kid is also coming home with me tonight.”
In a world where parents are trying to balance keeping their children safe while also giving them the freedom of independence, is Henry onto something? Commenters seem to think so! From parents of toddlers who love to run, “leash kids” themselves, and even a handful of non-parents willing to listen, Henry is receiving praise. Nearly all of the top liked comments out of the 11,000 agree: They’re pro-leash.
What Commenters are Saying
Scrolling through the comment section will meet you with tons of praise and agreement for Henry’s toddler leash decision. One of the top-liked comments was, “I used one of these at the airport for our toddler—saved my sanity because I knew he was safe!” Reinforcing that toddler leashes are sometimes used for specific occasions like traveling, exploring the city, or visiting theme parks.
Some commenters even admitted that before they became parents they would’ve thought it was crazy, but are now fully on board. One mom explained, “Before I became a mom, I thought I would never. But then my toddler happened.”
Other commenters pointed out that they loved the freedom it gives the child. The leash concept allows the child to explore outside of a stroller, but not so far that they will be more than a safe distance away. There also seemed to be a universal understanding that toddlers love to explore. The use of a leash can ease those earth-shattering bouts of anxiety when you don’t know where your child is—even for a minute.
Praise From Non-Parents
Even non-parents chimed in with praise in the comments. One shared, “As a child free person but a lover of true crime stories you are keeping your child safe and that is the most important thing.” To most, the safety and peace of mind using a toddler leash brings far outweighs a few side eyes or snark comments when out and about.
Then came the comments from the “leash kids” themselves—AKA, commenters who were the ones on a leash as a child. Many unanimously agree it was much needed, as they loved to explore and could have easily gotten lost. Several even mentioned having a “monkey backpack” to wear as a kid—and most felt cool in it! One commenter shared, “My mom had me on a backpack leash as a kid… and I loved it!! Gave me freedom while keeping me safe and close!”
On the Flip Side
While nearly all of the comments praise the mom creator, there are a handful that aren’t afraid to cast judgment. One comment that gained some engagement stated, “This for the moms that wanna be on their phones instead of just watching your kid.” Henry gave a personal video response back to this commenter, getting the point across that, “This is for the moms that want to take their kids to do fun things but understand that toddlers can run off.”
Then there were the handful of stories of parents who tried the leash and it didn’t work out. Most commonly, the kids on the leash would start acting like pets. A few parents detailed how they would put their child on the leash, and they would start walking on their hands and knees or bark like a dog. So, like everything in parenting, one solution doesn’t work for all families.
The Verdict
It was almost unanimously agreed upon that using a toddler leash is a go. And a practice that’s here to stay. Parents love that they know their children are safe 100 percent of the time. Plus, the added freedom kids get from being able to safely explore is well worth it for most. There will always be a few who judge. However, parents agree they’re willing to deal with outside judgment when it comes to doing what they believe is best for their family.
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!