SA Mom Shows Creative Method to Keep Child Safe in the Mall, Mzansi Reacts: "This is Illegal"

• One South African mom's creative method to keep her child tight while running errands in the mall left peeps talking
• The TikTok video went viral online, generating loads of views, likes and comments on the platform
• Briefly News takes a look at how the woman's method impacts a child's well-being and more
• Relationship expert, practitioner and founder of Engaged Humans, Paula Quinsee, shared insight into using a child safety harness

A woman went viral on social media for her unique method of keeping her child under control while running errands in the mall.

Woman shows off how she keeps her child from running around in the mall

In a video posted by @lutendownessa shared on TikTok, the mom demonstrates how she manages to ensure her child stays close by and doesn't wander off.

In the clip, the woman is seen using a creative approach to prevent her little one from running around. She attaches a child safety harness to her daughter, which gives them both the freedom to move around while maintaining control, as the lady was tired of her child running around and having to look for her in the mall.

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The method has sparked a mix of reactions from viewers online, with many praising her for her ingenuity, while others question whether the approach is necessary. While taking to TikTok @lutendownessa said the following:

"Do not come for me, I do not have a lawyer!"

Watch the video below:

Impact of using a child safety harness on a kid

While speaking to Briefly News relationship expert and founder of Engaged Humans, Paula Quinsee shared insight into using a child safety harness.

"In today’s world where hijackings, abductions, etc are a reality, using a child safety harness in public places can have both positive and negative psychological effects," says the practitioner.

The relationship expert listed the following positive and negative effects:

The Positive effects:

• A harness can provide a sense of security and reassurance for parents, especially in busy environments where they can easily be distracted.
• It can also reduce the risk of accidents, or a child getting lost, which can prevent a lot of trauma for both the child and the parent.
• In circumstances where special needs are evident, such as those with autism or ADHD, it can aid in children who have difficulty with following verbal instructions or balance issues.

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The negative effects:

• Some children may feel restricted or controlled, which can lead to frustration and children acting out their frustrations (i.e. temper tantrums).
• If used excessively, it can impact a child's ability to learn independence (they can become co-dependent), impacting their confidence and spatial awareness.

Paula shared the best approach to using a child safety harness by saying:

"Use the harness selectively in high-risk or busy environments such as shopping malls, airports, outdoor events (e.g. festivals, markets, etc). Provide the child with context as to why the harness is being used so it is seen positively and not a form of control."

People in Mzansi react to woman's method

The video has gathered many comments, with some parents sharing their own experiences and offering advice. Others have expressed admiration for the woman’s proactive parenting style, noting how it can prevent potentially dangerous situations.

TuceyM said:

"This is illegal though... It was all over around 2010 and was called outtucey."

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Malehu Ame added:

"I had this and people said I should let the child be free. I then gave up."

Chabie Dhlamini expressed:

"We're not judging, but deep down I wish I had it, where did you buy it?"

Dinny shared:

"Did this when we took my son to the beach for the first time. His dad didn't like it, he untied him. guess what, five minutes later he lost him. Found him 15 minutes late. Do what you have to do, mommy."

Lindiwe Thelma wrote:

"You are a clever mother, very good, other parents should do the same."

LesegoRam commented:

"I need this for my husband, I'm tired."

How can keeping a child on a leash impact their well-being

The Parent data site says a leash prevents children from running into the street, promoting safety. However, the impact on learning traffic safety is small. Children need to explore, and using a leash all the time may hinder their exploration. A balanced approach is to use a harness when safety concerns arise and allow children to run and explore when car dangers are not present.

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3 Other stories about parenting

• In another article, Briefly News reported about media personality Nandi Madida who shared parenting advice and how she raised her children with her Grammy award-winning husband Zakes Bantwini.
• A hilarious video showed a mother and father dressed like their teenage daughter, wearing hot pants and a sports bra, as a way to teach her a lesson.
• A young boy trended on the internet when his reverse parenting was caught on camera. He had much to say about his mother's weight and urged her to eat.

Source: Briefly News