refusing full body airport scanner with a toddler

[nukuspot]

I want to hear stories of how they handle refusal of the scanner with a toddler.  I don't mind getting the enhanced pat down, nor do I mind DD getting it, if it means we will not be exposed to harmful radiation from the scanner.  HOWEVER---My huge concern is that I cannot let them take DD away from me to pat us seperately.  I think that would be insanely traumatic for her.  She doesn't do well with strangers, and I can't imagine having to hear her scream through it.  Will they let us be together and I can hold her, for example, while they pat her down?

[gracemamma]

I'm wondering how this is going to work tomorrow when I fly with my toddler. DD is also stranger averse and not used to unknown people touching her (with good reason!!!). I spoke with my airport and it sounds like the pat down is usually done in the open unless you request a private room. The woman I spoke with said they might want to pat her down separately and I explained this wasn't going to happen. It still seems that it would be out in the open though. Now someone in another thread on here said that kids under 12 are exempt per the TSA Head on the today show but then onthe ACLU website is says kids get pat downs too, including babies. Im going to the TSA website next,

Still hoping for the best that we all get the nice, mellow grandmothery pat downers!

[gracemamma]

The TSA website says we wont be separated from kids.:

We have to screen everyone, regardless of age (even babies), before they can go through the security checkpoint.

We will not ask you to do anything that will separate you from your child or children.

We specially train our Security Officers and they understand your concern for your children. They will approach your children gently and treat them with respect. If your child becomes uncomfortable or upset, security officers will consult you about the best way to relieve your child's concern. 

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/children/index.shtm