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...or harnesses, or whatever you want to call them. I know I have commented before about how I would never use something that looked like a leash on my child. (Just being honest.)

But child number 3 has clearly made me understand why people use these things. He is always bolting away from me, and it happened in a parking lot yesterday. I was thinking, that's it: you are getting a leash! Actually, I was thinking about those backpack-looking things that are actually harnesses. I think I have seen them as monkeys before. Either way, this weekend made me realize that I care more about safety than about appearances.

Does anyone know where I can get one of these? I'll do some looking online, I guess. But is anyone using (now or in the past) one of these and how did it work out for you?

I have used them before. I got mine, a basic harness, nothing fancy from walmart. I think they also carry the ones with animals on them. Not sure.
Another option is getting one of those stuffed animal backpacks for kids and altering it for your use.
Use a loop of velcro to fasten the straps across the chest and then wrap a leash around the backpack part.

I know they have the monkey ones at Target. They are over with the potty seats, I think. We don't have one but our youngest makes me seriously think about getting one!

I will be checking Target out soon! Thanks for the tip...

They do sell the ones at Wal-mart that are a bear or monkey and look like a little backpack. I have also considered these for my oldest. When she was younger, she would bolt a lot even in parking lots and even if I was holding her hand. I too had said that I would never use one, but just as I was about to break down and buy one it seemed as if she started to grow out of that stage, thankfully.

I used one with my oldest. I was six months pregos and he was ALWAYS bolting. He thought it was cool the first time he wore. Then hated it. The nice thing was from that point on I just had to tell him if he didn't stay by me he would have to wear the harness and he would stay put. I got some rude looks, but safety is most important.

I love that you did that with your older one. How old was he? I am seriously going to Target to track this down.

I'm all for child leashes! I know that sounds horrible, but after my daughter has taken off on me several times, I broke down and bought one. I'd just rather have her safely next to me. I mean, hey, it's not like it's a choke collar or electric collar, right???

Oh, and they may also have them at Toys R Us (if you can't find them at Wal-Mart!)

Well it sounds like we are all in agreement on this one -- leashes are a good thing Thanks, mommas!