Keep yours on a leash

This is the subject of an email in my inbox today (from ModernMom.com)...

Jogging Strollers, Leashes for kids, Makeup & more...

This was just after I had seen a group of small kids with harnesses and a rope connecting them while on a walk with their teacher.

Do our kids need leashes? I know some people argue that even dogs don't need to be on leashes. The sight of kids on a leash always strikes me. Yes, I understand that if you have a group of young ones on a walk to the park, especially if you have to cross a busy street, may benefit from holding hands or even holding a group rope...harnessing your child seems wrong to me.

Anyone have any thoughts?