The roaming technique

How to stop your child from wandering away

Once your toddler or child can walk for any length of time, the prospect of him running off unsupervised can cause real anxiety.

Racing away on his own can quickly become a game for your child… and one worth playing as it usually ends with him getting a lot of attention. Your little one uses his newfound ability to walk as a way of establishing independence from you. At this stage of his development, it’s important  you make it clear that running away is unacceptable behavior.

Tips to keep them close

• Begin by explaining that you’re going on a fun walk and that your child will be free to walk by your side so long as he understands that when you raise your hand and say ‘stop’, he must stand still and return to your side.
• Engage your child in conversation the moment you’re out of the door; ask questions, see if he knows which way to go next and can tell you what to do when approaching a road.
• If your child runs ahead, hold up your hand and say ‘stop’. Praise him if he stays where he’s waiting for you to catch up or, better yet, he returns to your side.
• Start walking again, this time allowing your child to get a bit further away before you say stop. Build up his independence on your route in this way, praising him every time he reacts properly to your ‘stop’ command.
• If your child doesn’t stop, tell him they must hold either your hand or the handle of the stroller for a set time – maybe three or four minutes – and then start the technique over again.

Knowing you can rely on your child to be obedient when you’re out and about not only keeps him much safer, it also gives you greater peace of mind and helps to establish a bond of trust between you.

Was this article helpful?