A new "fashion accessory" helps keeps children close at hand.

I have always tried to keep myself well connected with my children when we go out. I guess I will always be overly cautious about that. However, holding both hands and parcels or bags at the same time can be challenging. Recently, I tried the O'Pair Fanny Packs for parent and child. There are three cute and fuzzy animal faces (as the fanny pack itself) from which to choose. The parent pack attaches to the child pack with a retractable line that can lock in place. Both the child's and the parent's fanny pack have a pocket for storage and an easy-to-click, adjustable belt strap.

My two children have never been big fans of anything that looks remotely like a restraining device -- and mind you, neither have I. But they both took a second look at these when I brought "Simon" the frog home. My five-year-old took to it immediately. He thought it was some sort of great game to be wearing it and be attached to someone else. My two-year-old followed suit, eventually, and enjoyed the cute froggy on her waist. She didn't even notice that she was tethered because of the amount the line extends (almost five feet). I really enjoyed it because I could be securely attached to my child while carrying my shopping goodies. A great invention! I don't know why it wasn't thought of sooner.

I should mention that kids who have refused to wear restraints of any kind may not be willing to wear these either.

Also comes in "Corky" the Cat and "Owen" the Pig. Find out more about this excellent device at this site.

Retail price is $24.95 and O’Pair is available at www.opair.net, www.inventiveparent.com and www.babiesinthehood.com.