Raising children in today’s world presents its own set of challenges. Young parents not only contend with the judgments of family members but also face unsolicited opinions from strangers on the internet regarding their parenting styles.
Jordan Driskell, a 31-year-old father of quintuplets who are all five years old, found himself in a challenging situation. Managing five children of the same age can be exceptionally demanding, especially when they are curious and eager to explore.
To address this challenge, Driskell decided to use child-sized leashes to keep his energetic children safe and under control during outings. While initially using a six-seat stroller, he found it cumbersome and impractical for their active lifestyle.
A video of the family’s trip to the aquarium, where the children were seen wearing leashes, went viral, garnering over 3 million views. The response was mixed, with many criticizing the use of leashes, likening it to treating children like animals. Critics suggested better training for the children to prevent them from running off.
Dr. Deborah Gilboa, an expert in parenting and child development, offered a contrasting perspective. She defended the use of leashes as a practical tool for managing young children, particularly those with neurodiversity, in public settings. However, she acknowledged that it might not be appropriate for neurotypical children older than eight or nine who have developed listening skills.
Dr. Gilboa emphasized that by the time children reach this age, parents should ideally be able to communicate verbally rather than relying on devices like leashes.
In conclusion, Driskell’s experience highlights the ongoing debate over parenting methods and societal perceptions. Despite criticism, parents should have the freedom to choose the methods that best suit their family’s needs without facing undue scrutiny.
