Reins with toddlers, do you use them?

When Poppy was younger we had a pair brought for her by my Nana long before she was ready for them. They were gorgeous, a little pink poodle backpack that she loved to wear. She never questioned them. She would walk along happily holding your hand but it was reassuring to know she couldn’t run off.

When Rosie got older she too used them. Her Sister was much more responsible by then and didn’t use them any more. Once again, there was no issues about wearing them. She loved her little poodle backpack and never argued:

 

Over the past few years we have moved house 3 times and somewhere along the way they have vanished. I have searched everywhere but have been unable to find them. I probably should have just replaced them a while ago but knowing I had them somewhere put me off rushing to buy new ones.

Now I hate seeing harrassed parents running after runaway children and over the years have thought it unnecessary (they should just use reins). However, lately I have been one of those Mums chasing after Daisy on the school run. She runs off at every opportunity (she is a cheeky monkey and keeps me on my toes)! It’s not been fun and has been very stressful.

Daisy is happy to be pushed around in her pushchair once in but would prefer to walk (or run). When I do let her out, she runs off. She refuses to hold hands too. Not ideal and very dangerous, especially when I’m managing three.

A few weeks ago we brought Daisy a new pair of reins. We took her into a shop and let her pick her own. She was very excited (not really understanding what they were) and picked out these cute Minnie Mouse ones from LittleLife:

 

So far it’s all good. She loves her little back pack. There’s plenty of room for a few snacks and a drink or a few faveourite toys, a spare pair of knickers and a few wipes or Mummys purse and keys. You can get quite a bit in there but we choose just a few things or she wobbles and complains it’s heavy. Perfect for little trips out.

We are definitely a family in favour of reins. They make everything a lot less stressful and much more enjoyable, especially when you’ve got more than one child to manage.

What do you think? Do you use them? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Karen x