Dad Faces Intense Backlash for Putting Leashes on His 5-Year-Old Quintuplets
Raising children today is a challenge in itself, but modern parents often face scrutiny not only from family members but also from strangers online who freely offer their opinions on parenting styles.
Jordan Driskell, a 31-year-old father of quintuplets, understands this all too well. His five children, all five years old, are naturally curious and love to explore, making it incredibly demanding to manage them, especially in public settings.
To address this challenge, Driskell came up with a creative solution: child-sized leashes. These leashes help him keep his energetic children safe and under control while allowing them to walk and explore their surroundings.
Previously, the family used a six-seat stroller, but it quickly became impractical. The children disliked being confined, and transporting the large stroller was cumbersome. The leashes offered a more manageable alternative, providing a way for the kids to walk freely without wandering off.
A video Driskell posted of the family’s trip to an aquarium, where the children were seen wearing the leashes, sparked a massive online debate. The video went viral with over 3 million views, attracting a flood of criticism. Many commenters harshly judged the parents, arguing that the children should not be treated like animals.
“Don’t have so many kids if you can’t handle the pressure,” one commenter remarked. Another mockingly suggested, “Can’t you just properly train your children? Talk to them about the dangers of running away.”
However, not everyone agreed with the criticism. Parenting expert Dr. Deborah Gilboa offered a different perspective. She argued that using a leash does not dehumanize a child. Instead, it can be a practical solution, particularly for managing younger children or those with neurodiversity in public settings.
Dr. Gilboa noted that while leashes are effective for young children, it’s essential for neurotypical children to develop listening skills and learn to walk independently by the age of eight or nine. By that age, parents should ideally rely on verbal communication rather than physical restraints.
Driskell’s approach highlights the broader issue of parental autonomy and the societal pressure parents face. Raising children should allow for individual choices without unwarranted social criticism.
What are your thoughts on children using leashes in public? Share your opinions in the comments section below, and don’t forget to share this article with friends and family to hear their views too!
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