Raising children today comes with its own set of challenges. Young parents not only face opinions from family members but also from strangers online who often comment on their parenting methods.
Jordan Driskell, a father of five quintuplets, knows this all too well. His quintuplets are 5 years old, and managing five curious and energetic children can be exhausting.
To address this, 31-year-old Jordan Driskell found a creative solution: he bought child leashes to help control his active kids when they are out in public.
Previously, Driskell used a 6-seat stroller for the family, but it quickly became inconvenient and uncomfortable for the kids. The leashes allow the children to explore their surroundings safely while staying within their dad’s sight and control.
Driskell posted a video of the family’s trip to the aquarium, which sparked significant controversy online. The video, which has garnered over 3 million views, received numerous comments criticizing the use of leashes, with some comparing the children to animals and others suggesting that having so many kids was unmanageable.
Some commenters offered unsolicited advice, suggesting, “Can’t you just properly train your children?” and “Discuss with them why wandering off is dangerous.”
However, Dr. Deborah Gilboa, an expert in parenting and adolescent development, supports the use of leashes. She believes they do not make children feel like animals and are a better alternative to staying home. Dr. Gilboa views leashes as a useful tool for managing younger or neuro-diverse children in public. However, she advises that neurotypical children should develop listening skills by ages eight or nine, enabling effective verbal communication without relying on leashes.
Parents should have the freedom to choose their parenting methods without facing unnecessary judgment from society.
What are your thoughts on using child leashes in public? Let us know in the comments below. Share this article with friends and family to hear their opinions too!
