Parenting is a challenging journey, especially in today’s world where everyone seems to have an opinion on how it should be done. Meet Jordan Driskell, a 31-year-old father of five-year-old quintuplets. Imagine the chaos of wrangling five children of the same age, especially when they are at their curious and exploratory stage.
To tackle this unique situation, Jordan came up with a practical solution – child-sized leashes. These leashes allow him to keep track of his lively little ones while they are out in public. It’s not an easy task, and Jordan wanted to prioritize their safety above all else. The leashes give the children the freedom to explore their surroundings while ensuring their father can maintain visibility and control.
But when Jordan shared a video of their family outing to the aquarium, things took an unexpected turn. The video went viral, amassing over 3 million views, and it sparked a heated debate. Some people voiced concerns, arguing that using leashes is akin to treating children like animals. Others suggested that managing a large family should be carefully considered.
However, parenting and adolescent development expert, Dr. Deborah Gilboa, offers a different perspective. She believes that using a leash doesn’t make a child feel like an animal. In fact, she argues that in certain situations, it can be vital for ensuring the safety of younger or neuro-diverse children in public spaces. Dr. Gilboa also points out that for neurotypical children who haven’t yet learned to listen and communicate effectively, over-reliance on leashes could be counterproductive. By the age of eight or nine, parents should have developed a verbal communication with their children that eliminates the need for tools like leashes.
At the end of the day, parents should have the freedom to choose their parenting style without facing unnecessary judgment from society. Each family and situation is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. So, instead of passing judgment, let’s encourage open discussions on these topics and respect each other’s perspectives.
What do you think about using leashes for children in public? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below and encourage you to discuss this with friends and family to gain different viewpoints!
