I insisted when they made our gate that the bars be very, very close together. Even though it would cost more. And yes, even though it would be a lot of work. Today Josiah came running inside to get both Mama and Papa because Elijah needed help. Our little escape artist tested my gate design. I wouldn't call it a glaring success but it kept him in the yard! Took a few minutes to figure out how he got on the other side and then got his head stuck until we told him to get out - I was about to go get the cooking oil and grease him up when he calmly just got himself out. Well played, little child.