That heart-in-mouth moment when your little one suddenly bolts is something so many parents recognise. One minute they are beside you, the next they have spotted freedom, space, excitement - and they are off.
In this episode, we explore what is really going on when children run away from us, and why it often happens just as they are beginning to feel more confident and independent. From a child’s perspective, they have spent much of their early life being moved, carried, lifted and guided from place to place. Then suddenly they discover they can move themselves, and running feels exciting, powerful and freeing.
We talk about the sensory pull of movement, space and exploration, and why young children do not yet have the same sense of danger or safety that adults do. That is why our role is not just to stop them running, but to help them gradually learn how to manage freedom safely.
Claire shares practical ways to build safety awareness from an early age, including how clear and simple our explanations need to be, why role modelling matters so much, and how games like “Red Light, Green Light”, “What’s the Time Mr Wolf?” and “freeze and go” can help children practise stopping and listening in a playful way.
We also reminisce about the Tufty Club, the Green Cross Code and the old road safety campaigns many of us grew up with, and discuss why teaching road safety now sits even more firmly with parents and carers.
The episode also covers what to do when your child refuses to hold your hand, how to make boring walks more engaging, and how reins or wrist links can be used calmly and positively when needed. Claire also shares her top tip for how impactful our reaction can be in the moment, especially when we feel frightened or cross.
For families who are really struggling, we talk about how a reward chart might support this learning, and how to approach safety when you are out and about with more than two little ones. We have a blog on reward charts here
As always, this episode is about understanding children’s behaviour, setting boundaries and helping our little ones learn the skills they need to stay safe while still building confidence and independence.
Helpful reminder
Running off is not usually about being “naughty”. It is often about curiosity, excitement, impulse and a child’s developing sense of independence. With calm, clear boundaries and lots of practice, children can gradually learn how to stay safe while still enjoying the freedom to explore.
