In this brave,  new world devoid of any true moral boundries, the question of whether or not child leashes are ethical is humorous at best.  Certainly we all have much more important issues to address?  Gay marriage, racism, economic turmoil in almost every corner of the world.  But, I suppose it’s easier to talk about a mundane topic rather than one of importance, so on behalf of mothers everywhere, I place my opinion at the alter of society’s judgement seat. 

Child leashes are hilariously wonderful!  Not only do these devices provide an increased level of safety for a child, they also enable parents to enjoy environments that would typically be very stressful.  Considering that a large majority of persons crying foul to child restraints are most likely not parents themselves, it is easy to understand why they can be so pompous.  Claiming indignance for the children, opponents deem leashing a little one comparable to treating them as though they were dogs.  How untrue a statement and how blind a conception.

CHILD LEASHES CAN SAVE A CHILD’S LIFE:

Considering that thousands, if not millions of children are lost or stolen every single year, child restraints could be the one thing that prevents a young one from becoming a statistic.

Countless accidents are caused from not knowing where your child is.  Whether it be from accidental backing over in a car or a child running carelessly into traffic, using a child leash gives an added measure of protection in potentially dangerous situations.

CHILD LEASHES CAN SAVE A PARENT’S SANITY:

Simple enjoyments in life such as strolling through the park, shopping in a crowded mall, or attending social functions can become overly stressful for parents of toddlers or multiple children.  By using a child leash, parents can feel more comfortable in these environments knowing that their little one is never out of site or out of reach.

CHILD LEASH DISCLAIMER:  For proponents who remain adamant against the use of child leashing, I include a few “no-no’s” that should be associated when a child leash is used.

1.  Never use a regular dog leash around your child’s neck.  This could choke them and would be inhumane.  Instead, buy a cute back- pack type harness approved by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

2.  Never tie your child’s leash to the back of your car while parked, then forget them and drive off.  This could lead to criminal charges of neglect and possibly severe injury to your child.

3.  Never tie your child to a tree so that you can have some “me time”.  This also would be neglect.

As most caregivers have only the greatest love and concern for their child, ethics concerning child safety restraints should not be centered around simple devices used for protection.  Just as a dog isn’t always obedient, neither is a child.  It is not the laziness of a parent, nor the ignorance of children; but merely the way of life.  Opposition to child leashes is simply opposition to safety, security, and peace of mind under the guise of “so-called” concern for dignity.