Child harness
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A child harness (alternative: child tether, British English: walking reins) is a safety restraint for walking with small children. The device is primarily used with toddlers and children of preschool age, and typically consists of a shoulder harness with a lead (tether) secured in the back, either directly or by means of a hook.
When the device is used, a child wears the harness and a parent or a guardian holds the end of the lead or attaches it to their wrist. This allows the child relative freedom of movement in comparison to being seated in a stroller, carried by the adult (with or without a child carrier), or being held by the hand. At the same time, the child harness prevents child separation from the adult by the way of the child running off in a crowded or dangerous area, or being snatched by a kidnapper.
There exists a difference of opinion on the use of child harnesses. Those opposed to their use argue against restraining children, in favor of hand-holding. Those in favor argue for the benefit of enhanced safety, and increased freedom of movement compared to hand-holding or confinement of children to strollers. The child safety argument has been winning over in recent years and the use of the child tether has increased, particularly in Great Britain.
[edit] External links
- History of Walking Harness – A lot of historical information.
- Child Harness. Arguments in Favor. – A manufacturer’s web site with images and arguments in favor of using a harness.
- Opposing point of view – An argument against using a child harness.
