Raising children these days can be quite a challenge. Not only do young parents have to deal with the opinions of family members, but they also face criticism from random strangers on the internet. It can feel like everyone has something to say about their parenting methods.
One young father, Jordan Driskell, found himself in a unique situation. He is the proud dad of five quintuplets, all of whom are now five years old. Taking care of five same-aged children can be an overwhelming task, especially when they have an insatiable curiosity and a desire to explore everything.
To address his challenges, 31-year-old Jordan Driskell came up with a creative solution. He decided to purchase leashes specifically designed for children to help him control his energetic kids when they are out in public together.
In the past, the family used a six-seat stroller to navigate their outings. Unfortunately, this option quickly became tiring for both the children and the parents. The kids would get restless while inside the stroller, and it was incredibly inconvenient to take it anywhere.
The leashes, on the other hand, provide a practical and safe way for the kids to wander and explore their surroundings while ensuring that their dad never loses sight or control of them. It’s been a game-changer for the Driskell family!
However, not everyone has been supportive of this parenting choice. When Driskell shared a video of the family’s outing to the aquarium, it unexpectedly went viral with over 3 million views. Unfortunately, the response was not entirely positive. Critics argued that children should not be treated like animals and, therefore, should not be leashed.
Some even suggested that if Driskell couldn’t handle the pressure, he shouldn’t have had so many kids in the first place. Others offered unsolicited advice, suggesting that the children should be properly trained or taught about the risks of wandering off.
In response to the backlash, parenting expert Dr. Deborah Gilboa offered a different perspective. She believes that giving a child a leash does not make them feel like an animal. On the contrary, using a leash actually enables parents to take their children out and about, rather than being confined to their homes.
Dr. Gilboa emphasizes that leashes can be especially beneficial for younger children or those with neurodiverse conditions, as it helps to control their behavior in public. However, she cautions that by the age of eight or nine, neurotypical children should ideally develop listening skills, making the use of leashes less necessary.
Ultimately, every parent has the right to choose the best approach for their unique circumstances without having to face unnecessary judgment from society. It is important to respect different parenting methods as long as they ensure the safety and well-being of the children.
What are your thoughts on children wearing leashes in public? We would love to hear from you in the comments below. Feel free to share this article with your friends and family to get their perspective as well!
