Japanese host, Takahashi Maasa, was recently caught in an ugly spat with netizens after she posted a picture of her one-year-old daughter on social media.
In October 2021, Maasa shared a photo of her daughter wearing a harness with a child leash attached to her. But this did not go down well with her fans and followers who called her out for using her daughter like a dog.
Takahashi Maasa Gets Flak For Using A Child Leash
Image courtesy: Ameblo
After receiving flak online, Maasa responded to the criticism by noting that people are allowed to have different views when it comes to putting their child on a harness, but she chose to do so only to protect her daughter.
She further added that this would prevent her daughter from getting lost and wandering off, and said that she only uses it occasionally.
Takahashi Maasa Gets Mixed Response From Netizens
After her clarification, she received support from many netizens who agreed that putting your child on a leash is a good way to protect them, especially if they have a tendency to run off on their own.
However, there were some who disagreed with the host and felt that it was demeaning for the child to be kept on a leash. They felt that parents who use harnesses are simply treating their child like a dog.
Takahashi Maasa, is the daughter of Japanese actor, Takahashi Hideki, and actress Akiko Kobayashi. She got married to her non-celebrity husband in 2018 and their daughter was born the following year.
So far, the popular host has not revealed to her fans the identity of her non-celeb husband or her daughter.
Takahashi Maasa Hits Back At Netizens Who Criticised Her
Image courtesy: Ameblo
Maasa addressed the controversy on a TV show where she said that parents who are afraid of getting judged for using such harnesses should not feel that way. What is more important is ensuring the safety of their child.
She also had a message for all the netizens who criticised her for treating her daughter like a dog. “A dog is also part of our family. It’s really impolite if they look down on dogs like that,” she said.
Previous controversies
This is not Maasa’s first stint with controversy.
When she announced her first pregnancy, she shared that she hoped to return to work following a month of maternity leave. But, much to her surprise, she was in fact, bombarded with reproving comments from several netizens.
They criticised her for being naive about her responsibilities of being a new mum and claimed she should be taking a much longer leave.
Responding to the unfavourable public reaction, Takahashi Maasa had to apologise for her “careless comment” about maternity leave.
While Maasa believes in using a child leash to ensure the safety of her daughter, as a parent you may have different views. If you’re currently confused about whether or not to use it, take a quick look at the pros and cons of this device.
Advantages Of Using Toddler Leashes
Image courtesy: File photo
The argument that a child leash ensures safety in crowded places, often influences parents to use it on their little ones. Many like Maasa may also insist that a toddler leash can help keep your hyperactive child away from imminent danger.
- When you are out with two or more kids
As a parent, even though you can multitask, sometimes it can get really hard to manage children out in the public. If you’re a parent of twins, and you need to bring your older one for a walk, then a child leash can help you manage your kids properly.
- It can have multiple purposes
Your child’s backpack leash can work as a safety device when your child is placed in the stroller or when you want to ride a motorcycle with your child.
Disadvantages Of Using Child Leashes
Since your child is just learning to walk and learning to balance their speed and balance, some of them may accidentally tip over after the leash restricts their sudden movement.
Another issue about toddler leashes, especially the ones attached to the wrist, is that they can cause injury to the child. While your toddlers may suddenly run, sit, or jump, these movements can strain the bones and muscles on their arms.
- The child may get irritated
Your toddler may not feel comfortable wearing a leash and may have irritation over their skin. In order to minimise the problem, you may use harnesses that are worn over the clothes. It is less likely to cause skin irritation.
Just like any other device, a child leash can be beneficial and risky depending on the purpose and the manner in which it is used. At the end of the day, you know what’s best for your children.
Lead/Featured image courtesy: Ameblo
ALSO READ:
Tell Us, Singapore! Would You Put Your Child On A Leash?
