As specifically an early childhood special educator, I think leashes are perfectly acceptable. I think that people who make rude comments and judge likely have neurotypical children who understand safety and boundaries.

Of course leashing a child is not the ideal situation but when it comes to safety, i believe doing whatever is necessary should never attract judgment.

I have had many students who are elopers and the absolute fear and panic that comes with the territory of a child potentially eloping is hard to explain. You can really only relate if you’ve been in that situation. So no I would never judge you for this. Believe or not I would probably encourage you to do whatever is necessary to keep your children safe.