She Wanders

Baby C loves to be surrounded by people.  She screams with excitement when other children are around.  She is outgoing to say the least.  My husband and I always ask each other, where in the world did she get it from?  I wouldn't call us wallflowers, but neither of us are the center of attention at a party.  But when Baby C walks in a room, people tend to be drawn to her. 

I love that Baby C is easy-going, fun and loves others.  It makes it easy to drop her off in the nursery when we are headed to church.  Or the rare cases that we have a babysitter.  But her outgoing personality also has some drawbacks. 

I can't let Baby C out of my sight and often have to carry her or hold her hand wherever we go.  She is not afraid to take off and explore the world on her own.  And though I want her to be independent and try things by herself, I always have to have my full attention on her when we are in public. 

A few weeks ago, my husband and I were dropping Baby C off at the nursery before we headed into church service.  There was some confusion because her name tag wouldn't print from the computer.  My husband was trying to help me out and we took our eyes off of her for literally two seconds and she was gone.  My heart sank and I was in complete panic mode.  Even though we were at church, it's a huge church with lots of people.  Plus, it was even more crowded because of an event that was taking place.  A few minutes later, we found her already inside the nursery.  She had let herself in.

I can't imagine the pain and heartache of losing a child, for I felt that just for a couple of minutes and it was something no parent should ever experience.  So, I can understand the perspective better of a protective parent or a helicopter mom.  Because I think I may be one.

Do you have a child who wanders on their own or one that stays by your side?

What are your tips or advice to keeping a wanderer safe?